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Man is a Dependable Sort

MARIANNA, FL - When walking into the Recycling Processing Center at the Sunland Center, the team of workers are swiftly sorting cardboard boxes. The workers are enjoying the fast pace, especially John Phillips. Phillips, who has a mild developmental disability, exudes warmth when interacting with others.

He has worked more than a year in the Recycling Center and has won praises from his supervisor, Shannon Stewart. Stewart said, “John has an excellent work ethic. He will do anything he’s asked to do. He has a very positive attitude.”

Phillips has been in state custody since 1999 for committing a crime. He was found incompetent to proceed to trial due to his disability. His good behavior and positive attitude have helped him move through the rehabilitation process. He is scheduled to return home to Brevard County later this year. Stewart said, “With the way he works, he will do well in the community.” Stewart says if Phillips cannot find a job in recycling, he is excellent at lawn work. He likes to take care of the lawn around the Recycling Center.

October is Disability Employment Awareness Month. The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) is highlighting the contributions of people with disabilities.

The Sunland Center in Marianna is operated by APD. The center has served people with developmental disabilities since 1963. There are currently 326 residents at the center including 34 in a secure forensic program because they committed crimes but were found incompetent to proceed to trial. Individuals in the forensic program are provided treatment and training to eliminate negative behaviors and as their behavior improves they are allowed opportunities to learn new skills and work.

The agency currently serves about 35,000 Floridians with developmental disabilities of mental retardation, autism, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and Prader-Willi syndrome. For more information on the agency, call 1-866-APD-CARES or visit www.apd.myflorida.com.

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").