Vocational Service Award
The Clara Martin Center Vocational Services Award is given yearly to honor the extraordinary work of individuals in our communities who best exemplify the agency philosophy of “People Helping People” through their actions during the past year and nominations received from staff members.
2021 Recipient
Hope Home Care
left: Leah Stewart, Hope Home Care, right: Holly Benior, Clara Martin Center
Just as compassion for others is at the heart of Clara Martin Center’s work in the field of mental health, it is a core trait of an area business, Hope Home Care, based in Bethel. Hope Home Care strives to help elderly and disabled individuals remain in their own homes by providing companionship, respite, meal preparation, light housekeeping, personal care, and shopping. Several years ago, this employer approached the Agency’s Vocational Services seeking special workers who were dependable, kind-hearted, and patient. This type of work appealed to clients in both the JOBS and CRT Supported Employment programs, as it offered a way to give back to those in need. Over time, four individuals from Clara Martin Center’s vocational programs have been hired by Hope Home Care. This employer has carefully matched Care-Givers with its clientele and has been sensitive to the scheduling and flexibility needs of its workforce. Not only have the job experiences through Hope Home Care been a source of income, but vocational clients have cited how rewarding it is to contribute to the quality of life for others. In recognition of the employment opportunities offered by this business, Hope Home Care receives the Agency’s 2021 Vocational Award.
Previous Vocational Service Award Recipients:
2020 Recipient
Vermont Student Assistance Corporation
The 2020 Vocational Services Award was presented to the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation In honor of their regional Counselor providing personalized support in connecting clients with schools and in accessing associated student aid; They are being recognized for assisting and guiding 16 clients over the past two years with finding appropriate courses that align with their vocational goals, registering for college programs, and applying for financial assistance; They are also being recognized for knowing that knowledge is power, and these learning experiences have empowered our clients by broadening their proficiency resulting in our clients building careers and realizing fulfillment of their employment aspirations. Thank you Vermont Student Assistance Corporation for making client’s dreams come true!
2019 Recipient
Capstone Community Action
The 2019 Vocational Services Award was presented to Capstone Community Actionin honor of their creative approaches and innovative programs to advance educational and career efforts for individuals with mental health challenges who seek meaningful employment opportunities. Capstone Community Action is recognized as being steadfastly supportive of mature clients re-entering the workforce; acknowledgeing that they are true to one of their missions, to “Activate and Empower”. Thank you Capstone!
2018 Recipient
Vermont Associates for Training and Development’s
Rick Smedley and Pedro Baez
The 2018 Vocational Services Award was presented to Vermont Associates for Training and Development: in appreciation of their efforts in offering paid opportunities for people age 55+ to learn new skills and competencies; in recognition of their collaboration with CMC’s Vocational services to provide valuable work experiences leading to competitive job placements; and in honor of the environment they have created that provides for people to grow, learn, and thrive.
2017 Recipient
Central Vermont Basic Education
The 2017 Vocational Service Award was presented to Central Vermont Adult Basic Education (CVABE). Clara Martin Center’s Vocational Services Coordinator, Holly Benoir presented the award to Thomas Treece, Teacher and Community Coordinator at CVABE and said “Through CVABE, Clara Martin Center clients from various programs have improved mathematics and literary skills; they have become versed in computer use, and they have earned high school diplomas and GEDs.”
“Not only has CVABE promoted schooling prospects for ‘non-conventional’ students, it has welcomed the talents of agency clients as tutors in areas which they excel. By sharing their own knowledge through teaching others, clients have boosted their self-confidence and expanded their community connections.” Benoir added
2016 Recipient
White River Craft Center
The 2016 Vocational Service Award was presented to Kevin Harty, Director of the White River Craft Center (WRCC) by Clara Martin Center’s Vocational Services Coordinator, Holly Benoir. This establishment offers crafting workshops, meeting spaces, and provides a display and sales venue for area artisans. Beyond those functions, Harty, has welcomed volunteer groups from Clara Martin Center’s Pre-Employment Transition Services program and has provided work experiences for clients in recent years.
Benoir said “Harty and the Craft Center offer a nurturing, safe environment for numerous individuals who might otherwise ‘slip through the cracks’, even providing housing for some in exchange for services such as building maintenance.” Susan Rockwell, a weaving instructor, accepted the award on behalf of the WRCC adding that the partnership between the two organizations works because “working with your hands soothes the mind.”