NEW YORK, NY -- What happens when opportunity knocks and a candidate for employment can't hear it? At the Millenium Hilton, it's ushered right in with some help from the Lexington Vocational Services Center, a non-profit agency that assists qualified candidates, who are deaf or hearing-impaired, to obtain employment.

Millenium Hilton's work with Lexington Center clients has earned the downtown hotel a New York State Regional Workforce Alliance "Award of Recognition." This award honors groups and businesses that assume a leadership role in enhancing employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Abby Waldman, the Lexington Vocational Center's supervisor of job development, nominated Millenium Hilton for the regional and statewide awards.

Human Resources Manager Colette Chapman knows the value of this largely untapped work force. Hector Morales, a former client of the Lexington Center, has been a steward at Millenium Hilton for over eight years. Reliable and enthusiastic, Hector is a member of the Diversity Committee, educating team members about diversity in the workplace.

Colette and Joe Marino, director of housekeeping and Hector's immediate supervisor, have already completed the first level of sign language classes.

"The Millenium Hilton is dedicated to assisting those with disabilities and will continue to work closely with Lexington, as well as other agencies, to recruit and train more of their clients," Ms. Chapman said.

The Lexington Center screens applicants, contacts potential employers, and provides support services to the individuals and as well as the companies that hire them. Once an employee is placed, training on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates is provided. Deaf Awareness Training, including classes in sign language, is provided for staff members working with the deaf employees, and job training for the employee is provided using job coaches fluent in sign language

The Millenium Hilton, a AAA Four-Diamond and Mobil Four Star property, is located at 55 Church Street, New York, NY, opposite the World Trade Center at the hub of Manhattan's financial district, and convenient to Tribeca, SoHo, Little Italy, Chinatown and South Street Seaport. For more information, call Reservations at (212) 693-2001.

Veronica Dale
McShane Associates Inc.
908 236-6677