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Belleview Man Shows Initiative on the Job

BELLEVIEW, FL - Neil Lane eagerly takes on new challenges at work, and doesn't mind last-minute speaking engagements. The Belleview man also has a developmental disability. During October, which is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Florida's Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) is putting the spotlight on Floridians like Lane who have careers and fulfilling lives.

Diagnosed with a cognitive disability, Lane works part-time at Florida Concrete & Carpentry, Inc., in Ocala. He does lawn maintenance, keeps the shop clean, and fills the stockroom. In just a few months, he's not only shown that he is dependable and a team player, he is also showing an interest in learning about small engines.

"He's learning a lot about the business," says Tim Burrall, the shop manager. "And he's a very hard worker. I've got to give him a star for that!"

Lane receives services from APD such as supported living, supported employment, and in-home support. At a recent event in Ocala, he had an unexpected chance to talk about what those services mean to him. Someone else was scheduled to speak to a group of supported employment and supported living coaches, but had to cancel at the last minute.

"Although he is usually very shy, Neil stepped in and took his place before an audience of over 70 people," says Cindy Drew at APD's Area 13 office in Wildwood, FL. "His sensitive, short, but powerful answers had a large crowd applauding their appreciation."

APD supports people with developmental disabilities to live, learn, and work in their communities. For more information about the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, visit apd.myflorida.com or call toll-free 1-866-APD-CARES (1-866-273-2273).

CAPTION FOR PHOTO---Neil Lane is making points with his boss at Florida Concrete & Carpentry.

REMINDER FOR MEDIA---When reporting on stories about people with disabilities, remember to use language that puts the person first, rather than the disability. For example, use phrases such as "persons with disabilities" (instead of "the disabled") and "person who uses a wheelchair" (rather than "wheelchair bound").