Why Inclusive Hiring Matters: Celebrating Dwayne’s 40 Years at CFDS
For 40 years, Dwayne has been a steady and reliable part of the CFDS team. His journey is more than a work anniversary, it is a powerful example of what is possible when organizations embrace inclusive hiring and recognize the talent, heart, and perspective that people with disabilities bring to the workplace. “40 years, that’s full time. I was part time before,” Dwayne explained. His longevity is rare in any field, but within CFDS it stands as a testament to his dedication and the deep roots he has grown here.
Many colleagues have worked alongside Dwayne for decades. “I have known Dwayne the whole time that he has worked here,” said Ron from Human Resources, who has witnessed firsthand the impact of having Dwayne at the Center. Pat, a maintenance coworker, added, “I’ve been with Dwayne the whole time I have been here, 18 plus years.”
Many individuals with disabilities show exceptional dedication, reliability, and pride in their work. Dwayne is a prime example of this. “I get the trash cans around the building, double check soap and paper towels around here, and odds and ends of different things. I even mopped the basement one time,” he explained. “There are always little things. Someone asked me to bring a dustpan down, so I do some of that too.”
Hiring inclusively also fosters empathy and collaboration, shaping a work culture where everyone feels valued. “Dwayne is the best coworker I have had. Does what you ask, doesn’t ask a lot of questions, knows a lot,” said Pat. “He can be funny at times, unique, laughs at his own jokes, dependable, knowledgeable.” Ron echoed the same admiration. “He is a hard worker, very dedicated. If you see him in the hallways, he is always busy doing something.”
Dwayne’s success is not just personal, it reflects what inclusive hiring brings to every workplace. His story reinforces the message that hiring people with disabilities strengthens every workplace.
Employers who overlook this often-untapped talent are missing more than just potential applicants, they are missing the chance to enrich their workplaces with new perspectives,exceptional dedication, and invaluable skills. Studies show employees with disabilities often stay longer, reducing turnover and strengthening team stability. Ron reflected on what decades of experience truly mean. “You have a history when you work here that long. You know the process. People can come to you with problems and you have more solutions. You are comfortable in your working environment; you know the people you are working with.”
“I have seen people come and go. The dedication that Dwayne has will hang around for a
while,” Pat added. Dwayne’s 40 years are a reminder that ability comes in many forms and that workplaces
thrive when differences are welcomed and celebrated. His laughter, his reliability, his knowledge, and above all, his dedication has shaped CFDS for four decades. His story is a testament to why hiring inclusively is not just good business, it is a statement that everyone deserves opportunity, dignity, and a seat at the table.
The Center for Disability Services offer supported employment opportunities for adults with disabilities. Our Employment Options program provides participants with in-depth training to prepare them for employment and ongoing support once they are hired. We help individuals become independent and contributing members of the community, while providing employers with happy, productive and dedicated employees.