Florida businesses recognized for leadership in hiring young disabled workers

From Florida Today:

Lucas Ricart (pictured) is a serious-minded, hard-working 22-year-old from Palm Bay who has a big fan in his supervisor, Cliff Graham, the operations manager at Melbourne International Airport.

"He's a great kid," Graham said. "He has a great work ethic, he is here on time and he has never missed a day of work after almost a whole year on the job. From an employer's standpoint, it's a no-brainer."

Ricart obtained his position at Melbourne International through a program run by the Brevard Business Leadership Network, which helps find employment for young disabled workers.

On Oct. 8 at the Crowne Plaza Melbourne Oceanfront, the Business Leadership Network is formally recognizing Melbourne International and four other businesses or institutions for their role in employing and training disabled workers. The others being recognized are Buena Vida Estates, Florida Tech, Kohl's and Pizza Gallery & Grill.

Their recognition probably is more important now than in the past as the local unemployment rate, at 11.9 percent, is expected to rise with the ending of the space shuttle program.

Labor statistics show that for disabled workers, the unemployment rate can be as high as 75 percent. "While the current 11.9 unemployment rate does make it a bit harder to find jobs for our clients, we have found that companies are always looking for dedicated workers that truly appreciate the employment opportunity," said Betsy Farmer, the founder and executive director of Brevard Business Leadership Network.

Farmer, whose adult son, Luke, was born with Down syndrome, has worked for years to ensure that he and others would not be anything less than viable and contributing members of society. One of her main points to business and community leaders is that programs like hers save taxpayer money because they lessen the need for the public assistance that often goes to the disabled.

Another point is that workers with disabilities should not be relegated to simple tasks such as pushing a broom. That's why in January 2008 she added an employment agency component to the Brevard Business Leadership Network, which was originally established as a network of companies that supported hiring people with disabilities.

Ricart was diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome, a form of autism. He started at Melbourne International as an intern and then was hired a few months ago, working from 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. most days. He helps with many tasks -- painting lines on the runway, recycling, hauling materials and general maintenance.

Ricart said he plans to attend college and may or may not stay in aviation. One goal is to explore alternative energy sources.