Westin Hotel & Resort Pasadena Named Employer of the Year by Mayor’s Committee for Employment of People with Disabilities

 PASADENA, CA, Nov/ 7, 2011—The Westin Hotel & Resort Pasadena (top left photo) won the community awards trifecta today at a special awards breakfast hosted by Pasadena Mayor Bill Bogaard (middle right photo) and the Mayor’s Committee for Employment of People with Disabilities. 

The hotel was named Employer of the Year for its work with the Pasadena Unified School District’s Workability I Program, was presented with a Congressional Commendation from California Congressman Adam Shiff, and received commendations from the state Senate and Assembly.

The Workability program provides pre-employment skills training and worksite experience for special education students age 16 to 22 making the transition from school to work.  For the 2010/2011 school year, the Westin Hotel & Resort Pasadena employed three students in two areas of the hotel:  Laundry/Housekeeping and Stewarding.

“To find an employer like the Westin, with a very public image, that is willing to work with high school students with disabilities in a program that gives them the confidence they need to go out into the workforce, is really remarkable,” said Chris Otero, committee chair.  “They have proven to be true champions for people with disabilities.”

“Everyone at our hotel was so proud to be part of this program,” said Celsa Zamora-Padilla, director of human resources who spearheaded the Westin’s involvement.  “The students worked hard, and our associates immediately welcomed them as part of the team.  It was a great partnership for all concerned and something we’ll continue to support.  We are tremendously honored to receive this award and these commendations, and we’re looking forward to working with the newest group of students that started last week.”

“Over the years, we have worked with many companies that eagerly and willingly employ our students,” said Ana Gonzalez, Workability community liaison specialist.  “The Westin was our nominee for Employer of the Year because of the warmth and hospitality they showed to our students.  We have never felt so welcome in a workplace.  Our students and coaches were in tears the last day.”

At its annual award ceremonies in May, Workability named The Westin Hotel and Resort Employer of the Year from 48 other area employers who participate in the program. 

  

For more information about HEI, visit the company’s website, http://www.heihotels.com/.

Contact: Chris Daly, President, Daly Gray, Inc., Ph: 703-435-6293

Cell: 703-864-5553