The Center for Educational Advancement (CEA) has always believed that it is important to provide people with the opportunity to work and become successful members of society, regardless of a disability. We instill a sense of independence in our Extended Employees through education and employment. Through our mission, our organization allows people with disabilities to break barriers and surpass people’s expectations. CEA works to build self-confidence and teach life skills to the individuals that use the services provided here. The Special Olympics mirrors CEA in that they also believe that people with disabilities can make positive contributions to society and lead productive lives. The Special Olympics gives people with special needs an opportunity to excel and the ability to prove to others that they also are capable of great accomplishments. Through sport, participants gain confidence and determination, invaluable attributes that can only benefit the Olympians in their every-day lives.
On April 22, 2010 the Center for Educational Advancement hosted Special Athletes’ Day and representatives from the Special Olympics stepped in to offer their generous assistance. The event took place at CEA’s main building in Flemington and honored the Extended Employees that participate in Special Olympics. The purpose for the event was not only to recognize the Extended Employees that are Special Olympians, but to also encourage other Extended Employees to become involved in this great organization. They were able to show off their medals and proudly wear their uniforms. In attendance was Joyce Kirchin, Director of Special Olympics Hunterdon County. She was kind enough to provide Special Olympics banners that hung on the walls and free t-shirts that were given to our Extended Employees. She also brought the Special Olympic torch! CEA’s Extended Employees gravitated towards Joyce, as they know her so well from working with her in Special Olympics. Joyce said, “Working with the athletes is a rare and rewarding experience. Each of them is unique and has special qualities and talents to share with each other and the community.” Everyone who attended the event thought it was a great success.
CEA’s Food Services Program also had a chance to be involved in Special Athletes’ Day. This essential CEA program prepares individuals for competitive employment in the food service industry. Every Extended Employee involved in this program has the opportunity to develop their individual skills, team spirit, reliability, and gain a sense of accomplishment. In preparation for Special Athletes’ Day, the Food Services Program created decadent, rich, moist chocolate cupcakes to be served on the day of the event. In these delicious cupcakes were espresso and marshmallow cream – quite a treat for the attendees! Everyone who attended this event had great praises for it. Family members of our Extended Employees really appreciated recognition for their loved ones by CEA for all their accomplishments in the Special Olympics. Perhaps next year this will be a larger event with more Special Olympians and their families and friends in support attending. Also, participants could speak about what Special Olympics means to them as athletes. Gaining insight from the Athletes would really encourage others to participate as well. Hopefully, CEA and Special Olympics will have more opportunities to work together in the future.
To learn more about Employment Services at CEA, contact Joanne Kunz, Vice President, ESG at (908) 782-1480, Ext. 230, or e-mail jkunz@ceaemplyment.com.
