JMU Recognized at the DARS Champion Event for Outstanding Collaborator

Description

On Thursday, October 24, JMU was recognized at the DARS Champion Event for “Outstanding Business Collaboration.” This award was in recognition of the partnerships the Department of Aging and Rehabilitative Services has with JMU’s Facilities Management department and Recruitment Services in Human Resources. FM has had a long history of providing employment opportunities to DARS clients and has been able to offer internships to consumers from Wilson Workforce. Over the past year Aline (DARS) and Jennifer (JMU) have partnered on several goals such as the job shadow event for local high school students, speaking to Aline’s job club, etc. They are both members of the Harrisonburg Rockingham Chamber of Commerce Diversity Council and this past June they presented a session together as part of the Council’s first diversity workshop that was open to the local business community.

Aline’s remarks regarding the event’s award ceremony: “Poor Jennifer. She was harassed the most by my big ideas. Actually, she may help fuel them. Seriously, she is a champion of the community. She and her team are available when I call on them to speak to my job club-- sharing things-- such as-- how to complete a state application or resume. JMU sponsored our national job shadowing day –allowing 60 students to tour their facilities department and provided lunch. JMU works with our external training program at Wilson Workforce and hires our consumers on a regular basis. JMU exhibits excellence in serving the community and in disability employment.”

I am proud of Jennifer, her team, and for the willingness of FM to partner with us in this important endeavor to nurture an inclusive environment for all.

Involvement

Involves Staff, Involves Participants External to JMU

Scope

Harrisonburg/Local/VA, Regional US Scope

Date

October 24, 2019

Frequency

Ongoing (Currently in existence, year round)

Existing Center/Institute/Program

yes

Engagement Attributes

Engagement Award

Type of Partner

Government

Primary Focus of Program

Community and Economic development

Community Partner Name

Virginia Department of Aging and Rehabilitative Services

Areas of Engagement

Community Engagement

Format

Program

On/Off campus

Off campus