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» Jesus Camacho, E.Q.U.I.P. Enterprises, Recognized As 2012 Artie Lee Hinds Award Winner
On Sept. 26, 2012, Jesus Camacho of E.Q.U.I.P. Enterprises, Inc. won the 2012 Artie Lee Hinds Award at TIBH’s fifth annual banquet. The award—named for lifelong humanitarian, as well as TIBH founder and chairman emeritus, Artie Lee Hinds—honors an outstanding community rehabilitation program (CRP) employee for his or her commitment, hard work and job dedication through the State Use Program.
For nearly two years, Camacho has performed daytime and evening custodial services and floor maintenance through a contract with E.Q.U.I.P., TIBH and the Health and Human Services Commission (Laredo). From wiping down elevators, tables and windows to mopping floors and monitoring supply inventories, Camacho is fully involved in every part of the contract.
“We have three floors, and he’s all over the place,” Carmen Contreas, supervisor with the Health and Human Services Commission (Laredo), said.
Prior to his current position, Camacho was a truck driver, but he began losing his sight due to diabetes complications. With his legally blind status, he was disheartened and struggled to find gainful employment due to his inability to drive a vehicle. However, through the Department of Assisted and Rehabilitative Services (DARS), Camacho discovered meaningful work with E.Q.U.I.P.
“E.Q.U.I.P. actually is an acronym—it stands for Employing Quality Unique Ideal People, and that is exactly who Jesus Camacho is,” Karina Hernandez, E.Q.U.I.P. president, said. “He has broken the perception that people with disabilities are unable to do a job well.”
Each day, Camacho rides the city bus to and from his designated Health and Human Services building, where he is known for his exceptional work. “I take great pride in my duties,” Camacho said. “I try to do my best every day, five days a week.”
HHSC employees have noticed this work ethic, and they come to Camacho with any and all janitorial concerns. They appreciate his ability to maintain a cheerful, friendly disposition despite sometimesstressful situations.
“Jesus has an exemplary track record,” Mike Stevens, E.Q.U.I.P. contract administrator, said. “They always have great things to say about him and his work.”
Camacho’s initiative, positive attitude, pride in maintaining the contract and commitment to quality are unmatched, particularly as he always strives to exceed customers’ expectations.
“I appreciate all that he does. He goes way above and beyond,” Stella Cox, Health and Human Services Commission facilities manager of Region 11, said.
Congratulations to Camacho and the other Artie Lee Hinds Award nominees for their dedication and commitment to excellence in 2012!
» Fifth Annual Artie Lee Hinds Award Dinner Honors Dedicated Employees and Customers
TIBH Industries, Inc.’s most anticipated event of the year, the Artie Lee Hinds Award dinner, welcomed hundreds of employees, customers and supporters on Sept. 26, 2012. More than 300 attendees—including 50 award nominees representing 42 Texas community rehabilitation programs (CRPs), state coordinators, purchasers, customers, TIBH board members and Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities representatives—assembled for the fifth annual celebration in Austin.
TIBH was pleased to host the family of TIBH founder and chairman emeritus, Artie Lee Hinds. Her grandson, Hinds Howard—who captured an audience-wide photo to share with his grandmother—read a letter on her behalf, congratulating the nominees and thanking TIBH supporters for their continued work in creating and providing job opportunities for people with disabilities.
This year’s keynote speaker, KLBJ radio personality, Ed Clements, captivated the crowd with his understanding of what it means to be a hero. Though Clements has made a career of interviewing influential Texans and Americans, including Mack Brown and President George W. Bush, he reminded attendees that not all heroes are celebrities. He spoke candidly about his personal champions, including his mother, Janie Clements, a community advocate who started one of TIBH’s partner CRPs, Janie Clements Industries (JCI), and his brother, John Clements, a JCI employee and former Artie Lee Hinds Award nominee.
TIBH also ranked its Top 10 customers who purchase products, services and temporary employment services through the State Use WorksWonders Program. Organizations new to the 2012 Top 10 list included the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Department of Agriculture and the City of Austin.
Additionally, Raette Smith Hearne, Steve Pina and Suzann Vaughn all received 2012 Spirit of State Use Awards for their dedicated program support. Hearne was honored for her work with TIBH as the director of agency administration at the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. Pina, a purchasing manager at the Office of the Attorney General, was recognized for entrusting the State Use Program with large contracts and continually seeking more ways to use its services. As a Texas Department of Criminal Justice - Commissary and Trust Fund purchaser, Vaughn was acknowledged for her open-door policy in helping the State Use Program succeed.
The star of the evening, however, was Jesus Camacho, who was named the 2012 Artie Lee Hinds Award recipient. Camacho’s outstanding work through E.Q.U.I.P. Enterprises, Inc., and his story of persistence despite a life-altering diagnosis, inspired everyone in the room.
“Everyone was a winner tonight,” John Luna, Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities chair, said. “The best part was seeing how happy the nominees were to be recognized for the hard work they do every single day.”
Thank you to all who attended this year’s Artie Lee Hinds Award dinner. TIBH looks forward to seeing everyone again next year.
» TIBH 24th Annual Products and Services Expo
On Sept. 27, 2012, TIBH Industries, Inc. hosted its 24th Annual Products and Services Expo in Austin, following the previous evening’s fifth annual Artie Lee Hinds Award dinner. The expo is designed to raise awareness of the State Use WorksWonders Program, an initiative which helps employ Texans with disabilities while saving state taxpayers and agency customers money.
“[This program] is not just about a warm, fuzzy feeling,” Brian Powell, director of contract services at the Oak Creek Center, said. “It is a true showing of what people with disabilities can do.”
Community rehabilitation program (CRP) representatives networked with current and potential buyers, and they also promoted their products and services at the expo. This year, nearly 30 CRPs displayed their products and services, as well as answered questions, demonstrated how products work and provided samples for the 500 customers in attendance.
“We like to attend and see what new products have come out, and whether there is something we aren’t using that we should be,” Patrick Koll, purchaser III at the Evins Regional Juvenile Center, said. “All of the products are A-plus.”
Others were new to the event and appreciated the opportunity to view and test the products for themselves, as opposed to accessing the TIBH website or printed catalog.
“We buy a lot of office supplies from TIBH,” Kristy Willis, a representative of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, said. “This is my first time at the expo, and it is really helpful to see the vendors and products in person.”
This face-to-face communication between CRPs and customers is one highlight of the expo. With hundreds of purchasers from state, city and county organizations—as well as school districts, hospital systems, universities and political organizations—attending, it served as a time for CRPs to catch up with those they may have not seen since the previous year’s expo.
“We view this more as a customer relation event, rather than a new business event,” Duffy Nabors, sales and marketing representative at the Lighthouse for the Blind Ft. Worth, said. “It is not our end goal to get new business, but more to say ‘thank you’ to those we already serve.”
The expo also satisfies a bigger purpose, reminding those involved with the program that buying and using these products and services is essential to helping all Texans, including those with disabilities.
“We have a facility where [people with disabilities] can work, make a paycheck, go home and feel good,” Tabatha Moffett, marketing specialist at ABG Fulfillment, said. “Our employees love to be independent.”
With testimonials like this, many state agency purchasers enthusiastically back the State Use Program.
“We all want to participate and make sure everyone is brought into the job market,” Wayne McLen, technical support representative at the Texas General Land Office, said. “I am pleased with what TIBH does—it’s all of our tax dollars, after all.”
» TIBH Continues Seminars in Summer Programs
For the second time in two years, TIBH sponsored a summer safety seminar series aimed at educating community rehabilitation programs (CRPs) on the newest industry trends. Facilitated by Troy Bonar, these training opportunities emphasized a central message—safety is not a privilege, it is a requirement.
Bonar, an award-winning author and leader in the safety, security and management industry, led the well-attended sessions. With 20 years of field experience, including leadership initiatives and business consulting, Bonar presented innovative ways of promoting personal responsibility and professionalism to build a sustainable business culture.
“You are a significant part of the most important group of professionals in the workplace,” Bonar said. “You are the key to helping save lives and prevent injuries.”
Bonar touched on a number of topics ranging from products to personal safety. The January 2014 rollout of global harmonizing, which will take precedence over the now-standard materials safety data sheet (MSDS), was a significant change to those CRPs which must use chemicals in the performance of their contracts.
“I heard people say that [Bonar’s] comments on global harmonizing alone made the seminar worth attending,” Ron Bartels, TIBH director of marketing, said.
Bonar also reiterated the importance of meeting with employees regularly, as well as keeping everyone up-to-date on the latest trends.
“Safety for any business is a necessity,” Bartels said. “We have to ensure that our companies provide safe working environments for their employees.”
Bonar motivated audience members, many of whom said that they were excited to update and revise their CRPs’ safety programs. Having spoken to organizations like the American Red Cross, as well as contracting with companies in order to observe and make procedural recommendations, there was no CRP big or small that could not benefit from his message.
TIBH thanks its attendees and looks forward to presenting future safety seminars.
» Texas Health and Human Services Commission Purchaser, Becky Martinka, Supports State Use Program
With a career spanning 15 years, Becky Martinka currently holds the Purchaser V position on the Texas Health and Human Services Commission’s (HHSC) services team. Martinka has worked for the organization, which maintains and improves the state’s health and human services system, for three years.
Prior to working for HHSC, Martinka was not required to utilize the State Use Program. However, she now procures a variety of commodities through TIBH, including approximately 80 percent of the agency’s janitorial needs, as well as shredding and temporary employment services, for locations across the state.
“For instance, in HHSC region eight, we have 49 offices contracted for janitorial services, and TIBH maintains 42 of those locations,” she said.
This contract volume has led to an invaluable “give-give” relationship between Martinka and TIBH staff. If issues arise, she and regional managers ably negotiate fair market pricing, contract specifications and scope-of-work standards.
“When I began using the State Use Program, there were some concerns regarding the community rehabilitation programs’ (CRPs) management of janitorial services,” she said. “Relaying HHSC’s concerns to TIBH, we worked together to provide a clear expectation of the services, as well as the recommended management of those contracts.”
While contract management was an initial concern, Martinka has never questioned the desire of the CRPs, as well as their workers with disabilities, to ensure HHSC’s happiness.
“Budgets are tight, but the CRPs try to keep the cost fair and provide excellent service,” she said. “The consistent feedback on-site is that the employees with disabilities work above and beyond our agency’s expectations.”
Though HHSC requires procurement through the State Use Program if TIBH can provide the needed products or services, Martinka is glad to oblige.
“I’m a mom, and I think about how I would feel if my child had a disability,” she said. “Anytime you can build confidence and independence for a person with a disability [through these contracts], you are not only helping fulfill the agency’s need, but also an individual’s need.”
HHSC will continue to look to TIBH staff and CRPs to fulfill its service needs, an added benefit which, Martinka believes, is encouraging even more workers with disabilities in their pursuit of a higher standard of living.
“Helping someone become independent leaves me with a happy heart,” she said.
» Kirk Sneed Gains Independence
For more than a year, Kirk Sneed has been employed full time at the Lighthouse for the Blind of Fort Worth—a nonprofit organization that provides training, employment and rehabilitation to the visually impaired. Sneed, who himself has impaired vision, works on the copy paper line where he unloads pallets, places paper on a conveyer belt and labels it for boxing.
“It has given me the opportunity to work,” Sneed said. “People always use paper.”
In addition to his current position, Sneed is also cross-trained in the organization’s pen and energy pad departments. While his job at the Lighthouse is not his first, it is the only one that has allowed Sneed the independence to acquire his own apartment, which is located about 10 minutes from work. He rides in with a friend each morning and uses the Mobility Impaired Transportation Service to return home.
“I like working here,” Sneed said. “I’m doing it mainly to be around people, mainly to have something to do.”
At this time, the Lighthouse’s direct labor force is comprised of 100 percent legally blind employees. Platt Allen, III, the organization’s president and chief executive officer, says the program benefits everyone involved. Current estimates reveal there are 37,000 people in Tarrant County who are blind or significantly visually impaired.
“Our mission is to serve people who are blind in Tarrant and surrounding counties,” Allen said. “If our customers are happy with quality, price and delivery of our products, then we’re doing the right thing on the industrial side, and if people who are blind in Tarrant County are gaining independence, we’re doing the right thing on that side.”
Richard McManaway, Sneed’s supervisor, believes Sneed has not only gained independence, but also valuable skills. Among his peers, supervisor and Lighthouse staff, Sneed is known for his positive attitude, impeccable attendance record and willingness to do whatever is asked of him. McManaway calls him a standout employee.
“It’s hard to come by people who aren’t mad at the world and who don’t think the world owes them anything,” McManaway said. “It’s not a given to work here, it’s a privilege. I wish I had about 10 more of him.”
Through his work at the Lighthouse of the Blind of Fort Worth, Sneed has achieved significant personal and professional successes.
“[McManaway] called me in the office one day and told me I was one of the best workers he’s ever had,” Sneed recalled proudly.
With bolstered self confidence and a dedicated team, McManaway and the Fort Worth Lighthouse staff look forward to helping Sneed continue to reach new heights.
The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission’s (TABC) purchasing manager, Ron Hunter, oversees the procurement of law enforcement products and services designed to meet officer and staff needs. Purchasing for not only Texas’ alcoholic beverage industry’s regulatory body, but also its 20th largest state agency, Hunter, Domingo Lugo and Robert Scruggs form a highly efficient and State Use program-supportive, three-man team.
While Hunter has coordinated TABC’s purchasing for more than seven years, he previously purchased at various agencies for two decades. His current team buys items such as narcotic testing kits, spill kits, safety vests, nitrate gloves, targets and office supplies—including note pads, pens and paper.
“TIBH shows us all kinds of new products,” said Hunter. “They try to keep us happy, and they don’t make us feel like [our business is] taken for granted.”
Besides the wide variety of products available, Hunter’s team also appreciates the State Use Program’s ease of use and quality products, services and temporary employment.
“There was a certain perception about using products and services from people with disabilities initially, but that’s no longer a problem,” said Lugo, TABC State Use coordinator and purchaser.
In fact, Hunter and his team have come to rely upon not only the timely delivery of goods, but also TIBH’s customer service.
“If we have any issues, we know who to contact [at TIBH],” Hunter said. “They fix everything for us.”
Hunter and his team estimate as much as 40 to 60 percent of the consumables their organization uses are purchased through TIBH. TABC also utilizes Goodwill’s temporary employment services, including document destruction.
Although purchasing through the State Use Program is required, Hunter says his team is glad to participate, particularly after touring the Travis Association for the Blind—also known as the Austin Lighthouse—a community rehabilitation program in Austin.
“It was eye opening,” Hunter said. “I’m just amazed that these people can prepare a product despite their limitations and make something fantastic.”
“I thought, ‘Wow, I have all of my faculties, and look what this guy can do,’” echoed Scruggs, TABC purchaser.
Supporting people with disabilities certainly factors into the team’s purchasing efforts, and they aim to continue their partnership with TIBH.
“If we weren’t required to use TIBH, we still would,”Hunter said. “Where would these people with disabilities be without their jobs?”
» Dueshawnba “Adam” Ward Makes a New Life at LifeNet
Nearly three years ago, Dueshawnba ‘Adam’ Ward was living at The Bridge, a Metro Dallas Homeless Alliance (MDHA) assistance center for in-need citizens facing mental and physical challenges. Today, he is a team leader pursuing project management through LifeNet’s Fairweather vocational services department. Ward now works primarily on a janitorial maintenance contract at facilities such as McKinney’s City Hall.
“We work 10 or 11 locations each day,” Ward said. “We clean all of them, picking up trash, cleaning windows and vacuuming.”
Ward does not take his job lightly. In fact, he says it’s helped him tremendously— both personally and professionally.
“I’ve learned a lot about human nature,” Ward said. “This job has enriched me culturally. It’s not just janitorial work, it’s public accountability. I’m responsible for my people’s welfare and health.”
“Adam has flourished,” Joseph Garcia, vice president of LifeNet said.
LifeNet employs a range of people — from those with disabilities and others returning to work, to people making initial entries into the workforce or trying to successfully advance in a workplace. Overall, LifeNet aims to help people become selfsufficient by providing services such as mental health care, substance abuse treatment, gainful employment and supportive housing.
“I like helping people, and I will help as long as they give me ammunition to help them,” said Cliff Gray Spicer, Ward’s supervisor. “Adam is reliable. If you tell him to do something, he does it. You can’t put a price on that.”
Under Gray Spicer’s watch, Ward and his team clean more than 300,000 square feet of office and mechanic shop space, a sign and signal shop, 43 restrooms, 26 smoking stations and surrounding grounds.
“This is the best crew I’ve got,” Gray Spicer said.
With his three children for motivation and a renewed sense of self-respect, Ward now lives in his own home.
“I get a sense of self-worth in being able to say, at the end of the day, I’ve helped someone else,” Ward said.
As a member of the Dallas chapter of the Project Management Institute, Ward next hopes to gain additional contracts for his team, ultimately employing and helping even more people like himself.
» Robert Painter, Marian Moss Enterprises in Lubbock, Honored as 2011 Artie Lee Hinds Award Winner
On Sept. 28, 2011, community rehabilitation program (CRP) nominee Robert Painter was recognized as the 2011 Artie Lee Hinds Award winner at TIBH’s annual banquet. The award—named for lifelong humanitarian, as well as TIBH founder and chairman emeritus, Artie Lee Hinds—honors an outstanding State Use employee for his or her commitment, hard work and job dedication.
Painter works at Marian Moss Enterprises, a Lubbock-based nonprofit organization designed to enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities and disadvantaged conditions. The CRP promotes employment options that encompass freedom of choice, increased economic independence and opportunities for personal growth.
“I love coming to work, and I look forward to working,” Painter said.
Through lawn maintenance contracts with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and the City of Lubbock, Painter works on the grounds crew running line and hedge trimmers, stick edgers, blowers, lawn vacuums, walk-behind and zero turn radius mowers, as well as other maintenance equipment. He also loads and unloads trucks in the mornings and washes these vehicles weekly.
“If I could come to work on Saturdays and Sundays, I would,” he said.
Painter’s direct supervisor and TxDOT contract administrator easily recognize his consistent job enthusiasm.
“Robert is a rare worker,” Allen Putman, grounds coordinator at Marian Moss Enterprises, said. “The grounds work that he does has become his calling.”
Gary McLendon, facilities manager at TxDOT of Hockley County, agrees.
“You always have one guy in the group that sticks out, and I think Robert is one of those guys. Robert enjoys going to work every day, and when he comes to work, he’s worried about the quality of his work,” McLendon said.
Painter’s supervisors are not the only people who understand his value. His colleagues describe him as a leader, particularly as Painter independently performs all of his tasks, yet remains consistently willing and available to help others. In addition to his work duties, Painter also helps with chores at his group home, including laundry and yard work.
“He’s pretty nice, and he gets along with others,” Stephen Angerer, Marian Moss Enterprises employee and Painter’s closest friend, said. “He comes in with a smiling face every day.”
Crew members say Painter’s job has also provided him the incentive to change personally, helping him realize his talents and abilities.
“Everybody needs to be a functional part of society,” Michael Wyatt, business manager of Texas Agri-Life Research in Lubbock, said of his agency’s desire to participate with Marian Moss Enterprises and the State Use Program.
Being able to work has certainly given Painter a true sense of dignity. During his time with the organization, Painter’s attitude has changed, his work pride has become unmatched and he enjoys numerous compliments for a job well done.
“These TIBH contracts have literally changed his life,” Putman said. “If Marian Moss didn’t have these contracts for him, he wouldn’t be where he is now.”
Painter agrees wholeheartedly. “Four years ago, I got this job, and it’s the best thing that ever happened to me,” he said.
Congratulations to Painter and the other Artie Lee Hinds Award nominees for their dedicated work in 2011!
» TIBH 23rd Annual Products and Services Expo
On Sept. 29, 2011, TIBH hosted its 23rd Annual Products and Services Expo in Austin, Texas, following the previous evening’s Fourth Annual Artie Lee Hinds Award dinner. The expo is designed to raise awareness of the State Use WorksWonders Program, an initiative which helps employ Texans with disabilities and, ultimately, saves state taxpayers and agency customers money.
“It’s a wonderful program. It levels the playing field for people who are at a disadvantage,” Jim Norton, Texas (TCEQ), said.
Community rehabilitation program (CRP) representatives were provided an opportunity to network with current and potential buyers, as well as promote their products and services, at the expo. This year, nearly 30 CRPs displayed and answered questions, demonstrated how products work and provided samples for agency testing.
“This was one of the best [expos] yet,” Cynthia Wilson, Texas Youth Commission, said.
Attendees also chatted with both new and returning CRPs. Rising Star Resource Development Corporation, a Highland Village-based CRP that provides receptionist contracts for the Texas Department of Health and Human Services, displayed at the expo for the first time. Goodwill Fort Worth also debuted at this year’s expo.
As many participants have expressed, CRP representative availability and open dialogue is essential to the expo’s success, as is the purchasers’ abilities to touch and try out new products.
“There were a lot of different vendors, and we were able to get information about everything we purchase from them,” Phyllis McKenzie, TCEQ, said.
“[The expo] gives us exposure to new products we didn’t know were out there [in the market],” Eric Johnston, director of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice’s Commissary and Trust Fund, said.
More than 500 purchasers from state, city and county organizations—as well as school districts, hospital systems, universities and political organizations—attended the event.
“It’s a way for us to develop new products,” Stacy Skow, of Tex-Spice, said. “We have gotten new contracts because of this [event].”
Aside from creating new or furthering existing contracts, as well as viewing the available products and services, the expo allows participants to truly see the results of the program in action.
“We employ people with disabilities. They’re not just sitting at home,” said Skow. “It gives [purchasers] a sense of pride that they’re contributing to something.”
The state agency purchasers agree.
“Having a job gives people with disabilities some normalcy,” Cynthia Wilson, of the Texas Youth Commission, said.
Exhibitors included:
- • ABG Fulfillment
- • Aldersgate Enrichment Center
- • Beacon Lighthouse, Inc.
- • Camino Real Community Center
- • Corpus Christi State Supported Living Center/Woods, Etc.
- • Dallas Lighthouse for the Blind
- • East Texas Lighthouse for the Blind/Horizon Industries
- • EXPANCO, Inc.
- • Goodwill Fort Worth
- • Goodwill Industries of Central Texas
- • Goodwill Industries of Central Texas, Temporary Services
- • Goodwill Industries of East Texas (Opportunities in Tyler)
- • Goodwill Industries of South Texas, Inc.
- • Goodwill Temporary Services , Houston
- • Lighthouse for the Blind of Fort Worth
- • Lubbock Regional MHMR/Abili-Tees Shirt Designs
- • Oak Creek Center
- • Peak Performers
- • Professional Contract Services, Inc.
- • Rising Star Resource Development Corp.
- • San Antonio Lighthouse for the Blind
- • South Texas Lighthouse for the Blind
- • Tex-Spice
- • Texas Correctional Industries
- • The Lighthouse of Houston
- • TIBH Industries, Inc. (Central Store)
- • Travis Association for the Blind
- • VRC Industries
- • West Texas Lighthouse
Products included:
- • Office and school supplies
- • Furniture items
- • Medical supplies
- • Automotive supplies
- • Bed and bath supplies
- • Food supplies
- • Storage supplies
- • Janitorial supplies
- • Safety supplies
Services included:
- • Landscape services
- • Parks and grounds maintenance
- • Litter pick-up
- • Janitorial services
- • Vehicle washing
- • Window cleaning
- • Receptionist services
Temporary services included:
- • Accounting and clerical support
- • Engineering information
- • Technology data entry
» Erica Tristan, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Benefits From State Use WorkWonders Program
Erica Tristan is a purchaser for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), where she has worked for approximately four and a half years. She also serves as the agency’s State Use coordinator and is a dedicated State Use Program supporter.
“We’re helping people with disabilities,” Tristan said. “It makes me feel great.”
Tristan’s loyalty strengthened after touring a local community rehabilitation program’s (CRP) facility.
“After touring the facility and seeing the products produced by TIBH employees, it made me realize who actually makes the products, and it’s for a good cause,” Tristan said. “I believe people should visit a CRP facility to get a visual of the program in action.”
Currently, Tristan says the agency purchases a large percentage of the items it needs through the State Use Program’s TxSmartBuy system, including toners, pens, paper, cleaning supplies and furniture.
“We receive our products on or before delivery date, and rarely have any problems with them,” Tristan said. “If a problem does arise, TIBH resolves the issue in a timely manner. Additionally, the TIBH online catalog is user-friendly.”
TPWD purchases more than just products, however. It also utilizes temporary employment staffing services, including Peak Performers, through TIBH.
To ensure her agency understands the program’s importance, Tristan helped facilitate a mini-expo at TPWD’s Austin headquarters this past May. CRP representatives from across the state displayed products and services for TPWD employees, allowing them the chance to interact face-to-face. Tristan hopes to host this event again in the future.
» TIBH Central Store Celebrates Customers
On June 23, 2011, TIBH held its annual Customer Appreciation Day at the Central Store in Austin, Texas. More than 100 customers attended, allowing TIBH staff and agency purchasers to express their mutual thanks for support of the State Use Program. Also present were Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities members, Chair John Luna and Michael Daugherty, who took the opportunity to mingle and discuss the program one-on-one with valued customers.
“You’re keeping jobs in Texas and providing them to people who wouldn’t otherwise have a job,” said Robert Scruggs, purchaser with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission. “We want to help the program grow and keep it alive.”
Eight years after privatizing the State Central Store, TIBH has continued to provide state agencies with one-stop-shop purchasing options. The central Austin location is easily accessible for both local and out-of-town customers, and offers buyers a place to view products before purchasing, a plus for those desiring quality assurance.
“We use everything on the Central Store’s shelves and have never had an inferior product,” said Lee Pagel, Training Coordinator with the Texas Department of Safety. “I like the variety, and what I want is usually here.”
Customers enjoyed the afternoon visiting with other State Use purchasers. Many also took the opportunity to do their shopping on-site, comparing favorite products and offering future merchandise suggestions.
“I look forward to this event every year,” said Marvin Davis, TIBH Central Store Manager. “We get to personally thank the customers in our State Use family.”
Thank you to all who attended the successful event.
» Jack Gilmore, Texas Department of Insurance, Supports State Use WorkWonders Program
As the Texas Department of Insurance's (TDI) warehouse manager, Jack Gilmore has purchased the organization’s office supplies for more than a decade. Though TDI does not require purchasers to buy through State Use, Gilmore acquires nearly all of the products his agency needs by means of the WorksWonders Program.
"I purchase every item the Central Store carries," Gilmore laughed.
The State Use Program operates under state law set by the Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities (TCPPD), in which state agencies and other political subdivisions give purchasing preference to goods and services offered by community rehabilitation programs (CRPs) that employ Texans with disabilities.
"It makes me feel very proud to be part of this," Gilmore said. “I have seen some of these smart, hard-working employees, and the work they perform is incredible. The machines they use, their attention to detail and their attitudes are remarkable."
Gilmore's purchasing efforts are the result of a longstanding relationship between TDI, TIBH and CRPs. Though Gilmore uses the catalog and website to purchase products, he routinely visits TIBH’s Central Store.
"We expect to see Jack in the store every Tuesday and Thursday," Marvin Davis, TIBH Central Store manager, said. "We value his opinions and product expertise, and, through his feedback, we've researched and pursued new items for inventory."
"Everyone I have met at TIBH is professional and knowledgeable, and they are willing to help customers with questions or concerns," Gilmore stated. "TIBH carries hard-to-find items, and everything I have ever ordered was shipped to me quicker than any other vendor." While Gilmore appreciates the program’s ease of use, he also recognizes its greater value for people with disabilities.
"My purchases give these Texans a chance that they may not otherwise have had,” he said. And, even outside of TDI, Gilmore has purchased State Use items in his role as pastor of a Lexington, Texas church.
"Jack has a heart for people and serving others. He understands the program’s mission, and he wants to make a difference," said Davis. "Jack's passion makes him a special customer."
» Patricia Gutierrez Shines at the Lighthouse of Houston
Like many women, Patricia Gutierrez balances two very important duties–working and being a mother to her 6-year-old daughter. Despite vision impairment, she embraces both roles and, particularly, the freedom they provide.
For the past two years, Gutierrez has worked at the Lighthouse of Houston, a private, nonprofit education and service center dedicated to helping blind and visually impaired people live independently. On the bar soap packaging line, she operates a machine that can wrap 111 bars of soap per minute. The packaged soaps supply Texas prisons.
"Working has given me independence," Gutierrez said.
Diagnosed with glaucoma, Gutierrez has struggled with visual issues since childhood. She possesses only limited vision and some light perception. Visual impairment, however, has not hindered Gutierrez's ability to live life fully.
"She took to the soap project like it was nothing and asked to run the machines," Judy Lawrence, Gutierrez's supervisor and the industrial manager of the Lighthouse of Houston, said. "She is very capable and very willing, and I see her going beyond the Lighthouse, into the community, to work."
Gutierrez seems to be on her way, moving quickly through the Lighthouse’s Work Adjustment Training Program to full-time employee status. Gutierrez has found not only a work home, but also a personal one. The Lighthouse Living Centers provide affordable housing for the visually impaired or physically disabled who are able to live independently.
"I didn"t live by myself before," Gutierrez said. "It's my house. It's a place my daughter and I can call our own. It feels good."
From her home, she catches a Metro bus to and from work, and even makes a detour at her daughter’s daycare.
With newfound independence and tangible accomplishments, the Lighthouse also provides Gutierrez and her peers a sense of camaraderie–she and a group race in Houston's annual, city-wide Dragon Boat Festival.
"All of us who work here have one thing in common–we have vision problems," Gutierrez said. "I know I’m not the only one with a vision problem. We support one another just by being there."
» TIBH 22nd Annual Products and Services Expo
On Tuesday, September 28, 2010, TIBH hosted its 22nd Annual Products and Services Expo in Austin, Texas, following the Artie Lee Hinds Award dinner.
The Expo gave representatives from approximately 24 Community Rehabilitation Programs (CRPs) a chance to meet with current and potential buyers, as well as promote their products.
"You get to meet face-to-face with buyers and answer questions, as well as network with the people whose faces you normally only see a few times a year," Tabatha Moffett, representing ABG Fulfillment, said. Additionally, nearly 400 purchasers from state, city and county organizations–as well as school and hospital districts, universities and political organizations–attended the event.
"You can see things you don’t normally see," Sherry Brunson, of the Texas Department of Insurance, said. "It gives me some ideas of things that I might be interested in buying, but didn’t know they had."
Attendees got the chance to visit vendor booths offering janitorial services and food supplies, as well as products such as furniture and safety vests. The Expo is designed to raise State Use WorksWonders Program awareness, an initiative which helps employ Texans with disabilities and, ultimately, saves Texas taxpayers and state agency customers money.
Exhibitors in attendance included:
- • ABG Fulfillment
- • Abili-Tees
- • Aldersgate Enrichment Center
- • Beacon Lighthouse, Inc.
- • Camino Real Community MHMR Center
- • Corpus Christi State Supported Living Center/Woods Etc.
- • Dallas Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc.
- • Easter Seals Central Texas
- • Expanco, Inc.
- • Goodwill Industries of Central Texas
- • Goodwill Industries of Central Texas, Temporary Services
- • Goodwill OIT
- • Horizon Industries
- • Lighthouse for the Blind of Fort Worth
- • Lighthouse of Houston
- • Oak Creek Center
- • Peak Performers
- • Professional Contract Services, Inc.
- • Tex-Spice
- • Texas Correctional Industries
- • TIBH Industries, Inc. (Central Store)
- • Travis Association for the Blind
- • VRC Industries
- • West Texas Lighthouse for the Blind
Products included:
- • Office and school supplies
- • Furniture items
- • Medical supplies
- • Automotive supplies
- • Bed and bath supplies
- • Food supplies
- • Storage supplies
- • Janitorial supplies
- • Safety supplies
Services included:
- • Landscape services
- • Parks/grounds maintenance
- • Litter pick-up
- • Janitorial services
- • Vehicle washing
- • Window cleaning
- • Accounting and clerical support
- • Engineering information
- • Technology data entry
» Eldoris "Dee Dot" Ware, Dallas Lighthouse for the Blind, Receives 2010 Artie Lee Hinds Award
On September 27, 2010, Eldoris "Dee Dot" Ware was announced as the 2010 Artie Lee Hinds Award winner, named for lifelong humanitarian, as well as TIBH founder and chairman emeritus, Artie Lee Hinds.
"I’m not on cloud nine–I’m on cloud 99," Ware exclaimed shortly after the event. "I’ve lived for this moment."
Ware was recognized for her eight years of service at Dallas Lighthouse for the Blind. After exploring various plant positions, she now works on the vinyl assembly line.
"I had no idea," Ware said. "I heard '…and the winner is,' and I knew it wasn't me. I looked toward the screen and heard my voice saying, 'Good morning, everyone' in the video, and I dropped my mouth and my eyes popped. I said, 'That's me!'"
Ware immediately jumped to her feet amongst a crowd boasting 47 other statewide Community Rehabilitation Program (CRP) nominees–as well as a sea of friends, family, colleagues and agency attendees–and let out a burst of enthusiasm, pointing at the video played in her honor.
"I started crying and said, 'Wow, that's so great, especially with all she's been through,'" Iris Jones, Ware’s friend and cousin, said.
Ware lost her sight after contracting meningitis at 38 years old. The mother of two daughters, both in their late teens at the time, Ware and her children initially lived with her parents. She worked hard to overcome numerous obstacles and regain her independence–not only for herself, but also for her children. Today, despite her vision loss, Ware prepares her own meals and gets ready for work without help.
"I’m not a complainer. I've dealt with depression, but when I stop to think how blessed I am, I realize that the depression has got to go," Ware said. "I feel good. I can walk on my feet and use my own hands. I've got the world at my feet. Thank God for my job."
"She is an inspiration wherever she goes, to whomever she talks," Jones said. "She always wakes up with a smile on her face."
Other family, friends and colleagues echo Jones' sentiment, calling Ware a dedicated leader and motivator.
"She is my mentor and guidance counselor; I look up to her," said Hope Jones, Ware's daughter. "She's everything – friend, sister … party girl. Her determination to live a normal life is something that's great to me."
"Dee Dot (Ware) keeps the pack-out line very enthusiastic and going at a great speed," Nancy Perkins, president of Dallas Lighthouse for the Blind, said. "We can always depend on that department to get the product out."
"She's such a team leader," Deborah Nance, Dallas Lighthouse for the Blind’s director of industries, said. "You can say, 'I'm going to put Dee Dot on you,' and someone will start laughing and it changes the whole mood. She's so positive and bubbly, and she's an inspiration because of what she does." Congratulations, Eldoris "Dee Dot" Ware, and all of the Artie Lee Hinds Award nominees for their outstanding work in 2010!
» Third Annual Artie Lee Hinds Award Dinner
The Third Annual Artie Lee Hinds Award dinner, held on Monday, September 27, was a tremendous success! More than 300 event attendees showed their State Use Program support, and, most notably, honored its hard-working employees. While Eldoris "Dee Dot" Ware was named the 2010 Artie Lee Hinds Award winner, nearly 50 other nominees representing various Community Rehabilitation Programs (CRPs) were also celebrated. Artie Lee Hinds’ daughter, Denise Hinds Cartwright, son-in-law, Bruce Cartwright, and grandson, Link Cartwright, attended on her behalf. The youngest Cartwright read a letter from his grandmother, specifically expressing her admiration for the evening’s nominees.
"It was a jubilant atmosphere," Tabatha Moffett, an ABG Fulfillment employee and attendee, said.
Former NFL and collegiate football coach, as well as philanthropist and highly awarded special needs supporter, Gene Stallings, delivered the keynote address.
Besides his numerous football accolades on the field, Stallings advocates Down syndrome research off the field. His late son, John Mark "Johnny" Stallings, was diagnosed with the illness in 1962.
"His speech was really motivational," Moffett said. "It made me realize that we have more than one purpose in life."
Following Stallings' keynote address, statewide customers, whose temporary services, services and products purchases through the State Use WorksWonders Program ranked them in TIBH's Top 10 list, were recognized. While all customer purchases help support the program's mission, organizations new to 2010's Top 10 list received special thanks–Texas Tech University, the County of Travis and Texas Woman's University.
Texas Tech University has utilized TIBH's temporary staffing services by filling janitorial and physical plant project positions, their New Deal farm’s customer service representative needs, and various parking monitor and clerical openings. TIBH has provided specialized janitorial services for the County of Travis, specifically the Travis County Healthcare District, at county-wide clinic locations. Texas Woman's University has purchased through the State Use program since 1978, acquiring truckloads of Skilcraft paper and office and cleaning supplies, while also utilizing the program's temporary employment services. Texas Woman's University's Maybelle DeMore, supervising purchaser, and Diane Creed, State Use coordinator, accepted the award.
Spirit of State Use Awards for going above and beyond in their program support. Teague works in the TIBH Central Store, pulling orders, unloading deliveries, interacting with customers, distributing weekly shipments and, most profoundly, enhancing the lives of those he meets. Chandler now serves as the TIBH board of directors' treasurer, but is also one of the organization’s founding members. Chandler works tirelessly to support new CRP opportunities and is responsible for approving CRP technical assistance grants. As a former VRC Industries volunteer and director, Chandler has made a career of spearheading opportunities for people with disabilities.
Past Spirit of State Use Award winners Pat Martin (former Director of Purchasing for the State of Texas and former Texas Council member), John Altman (State Agency Purchaser of the Year at the Texas Department of Human Services), Dee Dorsey (Purchasing Operations Supervisor at TPASS), Ron Pigott (Director of Texas Procurement and Support Services at TPASS) and Meg Pfluger (Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities) were also acknowledged for their continued State Use Program support.
Top 10 Customers (Temporary Employment Services):
- • Health and Human Services Commission
- • Texas Department of Public Safety
- • Texas Department of Transportation
- • Office of the Attorney General
- • Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
- • Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
- • Texas Workforce Commission
- • Texas Tech University
- • Texas Department of Insurance
- • Texas Education Agency
Top 10 Customers (Services):
- • Texas Department of Transportation
- • City of Houston
- • Health and Human Services Commission
- • City of Austin
- • City of El Paso
- • Texas Facilities Commission
- • County of Travis
- • City of Dallas
- • City of San Marcos
- • Adjutant General’s Department
Top 10 Customers (Products):
- • Texas Department of Criminal Justice
- • Texas Department of Transportation
- • Health and Human Services Commission
- • Office of the Attorney General
- • Texas Department of Public Safety
- • Texas Workforce Commission
- • Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
- • Texas Youth Commission
- • Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
- • Texas Woman’s University
» Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities Meet and Greet
In June, members of the Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities went on-site in Corpus Christi, participating in events prior to their quarterly meeting.
On June 17, council members and TIBH staff toured the South Texas Lighthouse for the Blind. The tour, led by Nicky Ooi, afforded council members the opportunity to see the Lighthouse’s products and meet the employees with visual impairment behind the production.
That evening, a meet and greet prefaced the June 18 council meeting.
“This was my first time to attend the meet and greet and council meeting,” Rose Soto, marketing and job developer for the Corpus Christi State Supported Living Center, said. “It was an honor to receive the council in town, and, honestly, I attended because these events came to me. Before the opportunity to enjoy these experiences personally, I did not understand fully all that goes into running this program.”
» Tony Thompson is Building Memories at Horizon Industries in Tyler
Though totally blind, Tony Thompson possesses a valuable gift—his memory. He can remember any date, like the year a certain song reached the billboard charts’ number one spot and most of his colleagues’ birthdays. Thompson now has a new date he will never forget—December 18, 2009, the day he was named Horizon Industries’ employee of the year, recognizing his 23 years of dedicated service.
“It definitely put a big smile on my face,” Thompson said.
Originally from Lufkin, Texas, Thompson—who was born blind— has nine brothers and four sisters. He moved alone to Austin at the age of seven, attending the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. During his time there, he learned to read braille and developed a love of the Bible.
Thompson graduated in 1986 and moved to Tyler to live closer to his family.
Through a partnership between TIBH Industries, Inc. and Horizon Industries, Thompson now works as an assembler and packer for Horizon Industries. He has mastered virtually every job within the organization, including press board binder assembly, identification badge manufacturing and serpentine belt creation for military transport vehicles. He also bands wiping towels to place on the conveyer belt.
Horizon Industries launched in 1976 as East Texas Lighthouse for the Blind. Its mission is to provide employment to people who are blind or visually impaired. Horizon Industries currently manufactures a broad line of wiping products ranging from delicate soft tissue towels to rugged reinforced biodegradable rayon. Applications vary between janitorial and high tech laboratories to food service, transportation and manufacturing industries. Horizon Industries also capably converts products to meet customer specifications and offers custom packaging and private labeling. Eighty percent of its employees are blind or visually impaired.
“I enjoy coming to work,” Thompson said. “My team relies on me to do my job, and I count on them. We help each other out.”
“Tony is dependable and always willing to do whatever you ask of him,” James Moreland, Thompson’s production supervisor at Horizon Industries, said. “He is here every single day. As a matter of fact, you have to make Tony take a day off from time to time.”
Thompson’s supervisors attribute his success to his winning attitude.
“Not only is he always willing to help out, but he does so with a smile on his face,” Bruce Hendon, a crew leader at Horizon Industries, said. “He is always happy and cheerful and gets along well with his team. He is a true pleasure to work with.”
“I truly appreciate the work Tony does,” Kenneth Bambeck, production supervisor at Horizon Industries, said. “Sometimes I close my eyes and try to do things I normally do, and it helps remind me of the tremendous challenges he has overcome.”
Thompson is a member of the National Federation of the Blind (NFB), a group that works to improve blind people’s lives through advocacy, education, research, technology and programs encouraging independence and self-confidence.
» Scott Dekeyser, EXPANCO, Receives 2009 Artie Lee Hinds Award
On October 27, 2009, TIBH held its second annual Artie Lee Hinds Award Dinner, named for Artie Lee Hinds—a lifelong humanitarian, and founder and chairman emeritus of TIBH. Among those in attendance were 42 nominees from various community rehabilitation programs (CRPs) across the state, including the 2009 Artie Lee Hinds Award winner, Scott Dekeyser.
“I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to Scott and to all of the very deserving nominees,” Hinds said. “The success of our programs is a true testament to the efforts of the wonderful staff at TIBH, the hard-working employees and all who support their efforts. I hope this award will serve as encouragement for all employees to continue to do their best.”
Dekeyser, who has worked for EXPANCO in Fort Worth for nearly 10 years, works in the Document Destruction Services unit. He was nominated by his colleagues for his “willingness to work, his understanding of meeting deadlines and goals and his desire to be as independent as possible.”
Dekeyser’s colleagues attribute his drive for success to his winning attitude.
“Scott is the first person to recognize when someone needs assistance and is quick to volunteer to help,” David Dodson, president of EXPANCO, said. “He also encourages others to pitch in and help when necessary. This award is definitely well-deserved.”
Dekeyser grew up with 10 siblings, which might explain his endless desire to help others. Despite having such an expanded support system, he is extremely independent and has lived on his own for more than 10 years. He has a roommate who helps him when necessary, but Dekeyser does all of his own grocery shopping and travels around Fort Worth on the bus system frequently.
As a member of the Document Destruction Services team at EXPANCO, Dekeyser is responsible for many facets of the operation—primarily shredding confidential documents that are brought in from EXPANCO’s customers. He has also been trained to work on the sort line, unload and load trucks with bins and bale the shredded paper.
“I don’t think I’ve ever seen him in a bad mood,” Jason Swanson, Dekeyser’s case manager at EXPANCO, said. “He is always at work—and he is happy to be there.”
Dekeyser is extremely active with the local chapter of the Arc of Texas, attending the dances, council meetings and money management classes. The Arc of Texas is the oldest and largest nonprofit, volunteer organization in the state committed to creating opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to be included in their communities and to make the choices which affect their lives.
Congratulations to Scott Dekeyser and all of the Artie Lee Hinds Award nominees on a job well done in 2009!
» Second Annual Artie Lee Hinds Award Dinner
In addition to naming Scott Dekeyser the 2009 Artie Lee Hinds Award winner, attendees of the second annual dinner commended more than 40 outstanding nominees, 30 organizations and three leaders for their support of the State Use Program.
Former Austin Mayor Bruce Todd, who is a big supporter of the State Use Program and encouraged the City of Austin to participate in this program during his tenure as mayor, delivered the keynote address. He also shared some of the personal challenges he faced after suffering a devastating cycling accident in 2005.
During the awards dinner, TIBH recognized customers from across the state whose purchases through the State Use WorksWonders Program rank in the top 10. These organizations have consistently supported the program’s mission. Three organizations were new to the Top 10 list in 2009—the Texas Department of Insurance (accepted by Marcia Medina and Wanda Diggs), the City of Lubbock (accepted by Victor Kilman) and the Texas Workforce Commission (accepted by Ardra Alexander).
Top 10 Customers (Temporary Services)
• Health and Human Services Commission
• Texas Department of Public Safety
• Texas Department of Transportation
• Texas Tech University
• Office of the Attorney General
• Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
• Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
• Texas Workforce Commission
• Texas Education Agency
• Texas Department of Insurance
Top 10 Customers (Services)
• Texas Department of Transportation
• City of Houston
• Health and Human Services Commission
• City of Austin
• City of El Paso
• Texas Facilities Commission
• City of Dallas
• Adjutant General’s Department
• City of San Marcos
• City of Lubbock
Top 10 Customers (Products)
• Texas Department of Criminal Justice
• Texas Department of Transportation
• Health and Human Services Commission
• Office of the Attorney General
• Texas Department of Public Safety
• Texas Youth Commission
• Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
• Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
• Texas Department of Insurance
• Texas Workforce Commission
Three people were also recognized for going above and beyond the call of duty. Dee Dorsey, Ron Pigott and Meg Pfluger each received 2009 Spirit of State Use Awards.
Dee Dorsey. Dorsey is a purchasing operations supervisor for the Texas Procurement and Support Services (TPASS) at the State Comptroller’s office. She serves as the liaison between TIBH and the Comptroller programmers for the TxSmartBuy System. She spends countless hours helping TIBH staff implement the TxSmartBuy program.
Ron Pigott. Pigott is the director of Texas Procurement and Support Services (TPASS) at the State Comptroller’s office and has served as legal counsel to the Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities. He is responsible for state procurement, the Texas Statewide Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) program, state mail operations, the state travel program and state vehicle fleet management. He was also instrumental in rolling out the TxSmartBuy online ordering system.
Meg Pfluger. Pfluger is a long-time supporter of the State Use Program. She was first introduced to this program through her service on the board of the West Texas Lighthouse for the Blind in San Angelo. In this position, she became very involved with the Lighthouse and helped the organization turn a profit (her favorite expression was “show me the numbers”). She was appointed to the Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities by Governor George Bush in 1996.
Graffiti is a problem that costs municipalities and individuals more than $30 billion per year. More than 90 percent of citizens polled believe that graffiti decreases their sense of security and leads to property devaluation. Until now, municipalities have been forced to mask the problem with mismatched paint and expensive, harsh, and ineffective graffiti removers.
TIBH and the Lighthouse for the Blind of Fort Worth have launched a full line of graffiti removers. Whether your problem is spray paint or marker–on brick or smooth surfaces–these new removers are the fastest and most effective products available on the market today. All of the new products are designed to restore the surface back to its original state, while maintaining the safety of both the user and the environment.
In the fall of 2009, TIBH donated 70 matching duffle bags–and 10 coaches’ bags–to the Pflugerville Independent School District (ISD) Special Olympics team. The embroidered bags, which are blue and gold, feature a falcon in flight, with the words, “Pflugerville Falcons.”
“The student athletes love the bags,” Roxy Van Loo, state sales manager for TIBH and Special Olympics Central Texas Families Committee member for Area 13, said. “The coaches were very appreciative too. They tell us they’re the envy of the other coaches.”
In addition to donating the matching bags, TIBH made a secondary donation to meet the needs of the track and field and power lifting teams. Donated items include measuring tape, a javelin kit, stop watches and a starting pistol, as well as uniforms for the power lifting athletes.
The Pflugerville ISD Special Olympics athletes, who range from 8 to 22 years of age, will begin using the bags during basketball season this month. The Pflugerville Falcons compete with other teams throughout Central Texas in bowling, golf, basketball, soccer, gymnastics, track and field and power lifting, among other sports.
» City of Lubbock Recognizes Victor Reta, State Use Program
Victor Reta works as a custodian at the Texas Department of Transportation through Goodwill Industries of Lubbock Inc. Despite suffering a brain hemorrhage when he was a teenager, leaving him partially paralyzed, he works full time and actively participates in the Special Olympics.
On July 8, Lubbock Mayor Tom Martin and the City Council–Mayor Pro Tem Jim Gilbreath along with Linda DeLeon, Floyd Price, Todd R. Klein, Paul R. Beane and John W. Leonard III–recognized Reta for receiving the 2008 Artie Lee Hinds Award as WorksWonders Employee of the Year. Reta was selected from among 7,000 Texans with disabilities who are part of 122 Community Rehabilitation Programs (CRPs).
The City Council not only highlighted Reta’s achievements but also approved a resolution “supporting new areas of business endeavors with TIBH for the purpose of determining how to best utilize the products and services of exceptional Texans who are blind and/or severely disabled.”
Meg Pfluger, a member and former chair of the Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities from Lubbock, also was on hand to honor Reta, as well as Anna Braye and Michelle Barrientez of Goodwill Industries of Lubbock Contract Services; Mike McDaniel and Nathan Grassie of Marion Moss Enterprises; Mario Pena of Abilities Shirt Design; Fred Weber, Jr., Ron Bartels, Marie Richter, and Larry Sargee of TIBH.
City leaders believe creation of the State Use Program has paved the way for business initiatives that provide employment opportunities for Texans with an array of disabilities, including intellectual disabilities, mental illness and chemical disorders, learning disabilities, visual impairment, physical impairment, hearing impairment and brain injury.
Victor Kilman, Director of Purchasing and Contract Management for the City of Lubbock and a member of the Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities, said, “Our City Council is supportive of the program, and they play a pivotal role in increasing employment opportunities for citizens with disabilities. Hopefully, the resolution will inspire other cities to follow suit.”
According to the City of Lubbock, TIBH and the Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities produce more than $783,000 in annual wages for 140 Lubbock residents with disabilities, and contribute to the self-esteem and sense of accomplishment of the program’s participants.
“I’m an advocate of exploring contracting and employment opportunities for Texans with disabilities because I just feel, professionally, it’s the right thing to do,” Kilman said.
The following day, the City of Lubbock hosted a presentation designed to inform department heads and city buyers about the State Use Program, which allows municipalities and other government entities to negotiate specifications and prices for a variety of goods and services without the timely process and expense of soliciting competitive bids.
Currently, 122 CRPs across the state contract with TIBH to provide employment opportunities for Texans with disabilities. In Lubbock, CRPs include Goodwill of Lubbock, Concho Resource Center, Lubbock Regional MHMR, Marian Moss Enterprises and Mosaic.
Every two weeks, inmates are allowed to purchase items at Texas prison unit commissaries and buy everything from soap to salsa.
Many of the products sold at the commissaries are manufactured by employees with disabilities through the State Use WorksWonders program.
This commissary connection is the result of a longstanding relationship between the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ), TIBH and Community Rehabilitation Programs (CRPs).
The program operates under state law set by the Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities (TCPPD). TCPPD encourages employment for Texans with disabilities through the State Use WorksWonders Program. Under this program, state agencies and other political subdivisions give purchasing preference to goods and services offered by CRPs that employ Texans with disabilities.
Nolan Glass, who manages the commissary and trust fund, has been with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for nearly 25 years. Glass began his career with TDCJ in Food Service, where he remembers purchasing spices from TIBH and Tex-Spice. He took that partnership with him when he went on to work at the commissary.
Recently, Glass was able to tour the West Texas Lighthouse in San Angelo, which gave him a look at how TDCJ’s partnership with TIBH benefits people with disabilities.
“We got to tour the Lighthouse in San Angelo and saw, firsthand, how these employees are working,” Nolan Glass, for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, said. “These are people who appreciate work. Then when we entered into an additional bar soap contract with Houston Lighthouse, I learned that we put 23 people to work through packaging the soap.”
Aside from soap, products produced by employees with disabilities and sold in the state prison commissaries include salsa, pens, pencils, coffee, snacks, toothbrushes and office supplies.
Glass says some of the benefits of purchasing through the State Use WorksWonders Program include fair prices, ease of ordering and timely delivery.
He says it’s rewarding to be able to help disabled employees while providing a steady flow of products for the inmates. There are about 170 commissaries on the 110 TDCJ units.
TIBH Publications
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