Warm weather isn’t the only exciting thing going on right now: we’re back with more rewarding news about Chaz, who’s been making his mark in Philadelphia as an advocate for people with disabilities and helping in local initiatives in his community.

Chaz and two of his coworkers received The Exceptional Aspiring Members (TEAM) award this past week from Philadelphia’s Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS). The TEAM award recognizes a team that has achieved outstanding performance and promotes opportunities for team wellness and a culture of diversity and inclusion.

Chaz is no stranger to those attributes: he’s been with DBHIDS since 2022 as a part-time Lived Experience Professional/Office Support. Along with previous awards in his community, he also has had another part-time job as Game Day staff for the Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field.

Our Employment Services manager, Lerma, had the chance to share what Chaz enjoys most about his job.

“Chaz loves that while enjoying being out in the community, he was able to help people save money on their energy bills and self-advocate. He gained a whole new experience, honed his public speaking abilities, increased his self-confidence, and helped him broaden his connections in the community.”

Congratulations, Chaz! We’re so proud to see the transformative impact you continue to have in the Philadelphia community.