APD > Special to the Democrat

Tallahassee Democrat -- October 20, 2009
http://www.tallahassee.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2009910200313

Ricky Allen dedicated to hotel team

After more than a decade working at the downtown Intercontinental Hotel, Ricky Allen is still committed to providing excellent customer service and supporting his team.

"I like my job because I like to work folding towels and I like my co-workers," Allen says of his work in the hotel's laundry.

Jose Santiago, laundry services manger, has been Allen's manager for more than five years and works very closely with him. "I am not only his manager, but also one of his natural supports on the job. Ricky has developed many friends that work with him and offer support, if needed. The team feels that they can rely on Ricky as much as he relies on them," he said.

October is Disability Employment Awareness Month, a time when Florida's Agency for Persons with Disabilities highlights the contributions of Allen and others with disabilities to the work force.

The Intercontinental Hotel has 641 rooms all requiring clean linens on a daily basis. The laundry job includes all towels, sheets, tablecloths and other items — equaling hundreds of loads a day. Allen and his fellow team members must organize and operate the laundry room efficiently to meet the needs of this world-class hotel.

Allen has gained confidence in other ways, overcoming his concerns about attending social events at work. He was able to enjoy a holiday party with co-workers last year.

APD supports people with developmental disabilities to live, learn and work in their communities. The agency annually serves about 35,000 Floridians with developmental disabilities. For more information about the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, visit APDcares.org.