WARWICK – Armed with business cards, questions and well-rehearsed 30-second elevator pitches, more than 100 individuals with developmental disabilities met with representatives from the Rhode Island business community at the Connect2Careers event recently held at Chelo’s Hometown Bar &Grille, in Warwick.
Modeled after speed dating, the fast-paced affair organized by the Center for Excellence and Advocacy, a R.I. Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals-funded program, gave individuals with developmental disabilities the chance to engage in professional conversations with the business community and explore possible career choices.
“This event is another important step in achieving our Department’s goal to provide every opportunity for BHDDH participants to learn about, seek and obtain competitive employment”, said Department Director Craig Stenning. “Employment is part of an individual’s full integration into society. It fosters a level of independence and provides a sense of accomplishment.”
More than 30 employer representatives attended and included Omni Hotels and Resorts, Webster Bank, Walgreens, TJX Cos., and Wendy’s Corp.
