The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society honored its 2015 champions at the sixth annual Night of Champions on May 14.
“Dignity and self-respect are borne out of feeling that what we have to offer makes a difference,” said Allyson Harvin, the event’s chairwoman. “When forward thinking businesses give those with Down syndrome, and other differently-abled adults, a chance to be productive members of society, society itself benefits.”
LDSS also presented Doug and Denise Edwards of Edwards Interiors with the President’s Award.
“Doug and Denise both possess many special qualities, but one that really stands out is their ability to recognize an individual’s strengths and place them in a role that will enable them to utilize these unique skills and abilities to their fullest potential, giving many an opportunity where others may not,” said society president Joe Marchese.
The 2015 champions are:
• Jason Thompson, presented by OA Logistics. Jason has worked at OA Logistics since 2013. Part of his responsibilities include the operation and safety reviews for the commercial floor sweeper.
• Reuben Johnson, presented by Chu’s Mart. Reuben joined the Chu’s Mart on Abercorn team in 2007. Because of his job performance and being well liked by both his co-workers and customers, Chu’s Mart held his job open after Reuben was hit and run over by a car in June of 2014.
• Wesley Mosley, presented by J & B’s Steakhouse. Wesley has worked at J & B’s for more than two years, and his employers describe him as hardworking and a joy to work with. He has been a Special Olympian since he was 8 years old, competing in winter, fall and summer games in events including golf, bocce, basketball, power lifting and swimming.
• Kenneth Kelly Jr., presented by Kitchens on the Square. Kelly joined Kitchens on the Square in 2014. When the position he was hired for was outsourced. Rather than being let go, he was promoted.
• Billy Behrens, presented by Gulfstream Aerospace. Behrens started working at Gulfstream in July 2013. When his current position required working with computers, he rose to the challenge despite not having any typing skills. More than a year later, he has closed out more than 73,000 work orders.
ON THE WEB
For more information on the 2015 Night of Champions, go to nightofchampions.org.