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For Immediate Release LCI and Renalds receive statewide SANFORD — Two employees of LCI Inc. and one local business owner employing LCI participants received statewide honors late last month from the North Carolina Association of Rehabilitation Facilities. All three awards were presented at the association's annual conference in High Point. Angela Smith was honored for outstanding work "behind the scenes" in an administrative position. As LCI's finance director, Smith recently completed a system to track and report operating costs for 16 participants and more than 20 staff members in the organization's Community Alternatives Program. She also was recognized for her contributions to making financial audits a more effective process. "Angela has been with LCI for 20 years and knows exactly what works financially and what doesn't," said Sue Marshburn, who is leading LCI while executive director Meg Moss is on leave. "She always tries her best to cut costs and make this a successful organization." Berta Salazar, who serves as a technician in the Community Alternatives Program, was honored for her work on the "front line in the field." The award recognizes those who have gone above and beyond the job description in working directly with clients. Salazar has helped one LCI participant, in particular, overcome significant obstacles. "Berta uses her own patience and calm demeanor to help her participant," said Marshburn. "As a result, that participant has learned to become more independent and more comfortable socially." Employees weren't the only ones recognized at the Sept. 27 awards luncheon. Joni Martin, owner of Renalds restaurant in downtown Sanford, received the Community Employer Award, given for outstanding achievement in enhancing employment opportunities for people with disabilities or barriers to employment. Two LCI participants are staff members at the restaurant, and Martin has been particularly helpful by allowing LCI participants to learn skills by "shadowing" other employees and to try their hands at new jobs. "Joni and her staff have been open and welcoming to our participants," Marshburn said, "and we value our relationship with Renalds." The North Carolina Association of Rehabilitation Facilities, sponsor of the annual awards, is composed of members representing 41 community rehabilitation programs statewide that serve people with disabilities. Founded in 1967, LCI primarily serves residents of Lee, Chatham, Harnett and Moore counties. The nonprofit organization provides manufacturing assistance and trained employees for business and industry, helps people with disabilities enjoy their greatest possible independence, and produces a full range of trophies, awards and engraving. — 30 — Media Contact Photos |