October was Americans with Disabilities Awareness month. Washington Vocational Services – the nonprofit advocate for adults with disabilities on Orcas and throughout western Washington and Alaska – would like to acknowledge an exceptional employer on Orcas Island. This employer has demonstrated that people of all abilities and talents can work efficiently and effectively to help businesses thrive and, in turn, make our community stronger.

Jillery has been a shining example of how we can all work together. In the past month, Jill and Roger Curtiss have hired employees and discovered “supported employment,” i.e. employment that assures that an employee who has a disability has one-on-one assistance and as well as assures that quality work is maintained as the standard.

Other than having hired employees, Jillery plans to feature local hand-crafted jewelry made by a young woman who has disabilities who, with support, runs her own jewelry-making business here on Orcas Island. Please look for “Designs by Crystal” when you shop for the holidays at Jillery! Your support will encourage other local business owners to consider and experience the advantages of including all people who have various talents and strengths in their hiring practices.

Congratulations to Jillery for being a model for us all!

Cara Cohn

Zoe Fine

Washington Vocational Services