Port operator lauded for disability hire

Pier 48 Stevedoring LLC has been recognized for hiring a person with developmental disabilities.

“I am grateful to Paul Anthony and Tara Smith for approaching me with the opportunity to help an individual with life challenges,” said Larry Heck, president of Pier 48 Stevedoring.

Pier 48 is a materials handling river terminal located in Wellsville.

Anthony, representing the Columbiana County Board of Developmental Disabilities and its Reach 4 More program, and Smith, job developer for Threshold Residential Services Inc., presented Heck with a plaque of appreciation for the recent hire of a client with developmental challenges.

Heck said the new employee is a male Wellsville resident who lives within walking distance of the terminal. He was hired to do mowing and other landscaping work one or two days a week. He works other days at an area sheltered workshop.

“I have experience within my family and people around me, so it’s a privilege to give back and help make a person more a part of society and give them a chance in their life,” Heck said.

Heck noted Ron Thrasher, Pier 48 facility manager, made the placement possible by providing supervision, equipment and safety management.

Smith said Threshold has made a concerted effort as an agency to add vocational services including career discovery, job placement, career exploration, assessment and on the job training, with the intent to get clients into competitive employment.

“We could not do this without Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, a state vocational rehabilitation system, and the Reach 4 More program,” Smith said. “At Threshold, we also provide support for clients who may not be work-ready at our retail store, detail shop, lawn crew and day array sites. Full community integration and participation is our goal.”