Here’s a little something you may not know about CVS and how they are contributing to students here in San Marcos.
In February of 2009, CVS entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with California’s WorkAbility program with the aim of promoting and encouraging full inclusion of students with disabilities into the workforce. Through this initiative, numerous students throughout California have started out on a path to a better and more productive adult life through integrated competitive employment.
According to San Marcos Unified School District WorkAbility 1 Coordinator, Karen Thompson, CVS stores are their largest business partners and provide work experience opportunities for students at all five of their San Marcos stores allowing a diversity of locations that meet the needs of students throughout the city. To date, these stores have provided work experiences for 74 San Marcos students.
“All work experiences enhance a student’s self-esteem and dignity when they allow that student to work alongside adults in a meaningful and enriching work environment where their contribution is valued and they are encouraged to perform the same tasks and duties as other employees. CVS/Pharmacy provides that experience for our students. Our students learn to perform the same tasks and functions as their peers and wear the same uniform. In doing so, they are afforded the same respect and acknowledgement as any other staff member in the eyes of the public and their co-workers. Afforded this dignity, the students gain confidence and self-esteem in addition to valuable work skills.” Karen Thompson shared.
The North Coastal Consortium for Special Education Community Advisory Committee chose CVS/Pharmacy to receive the Excellence in Special Education Employer Award this year at a recent event.
Those present were:
- Mr. Irvine Porter – Senior Manager overseeing the United States CVS Caremark Workforce Initiatives program
- Dr. Rebecca Martinez – CVS’s Program and Development Manager for the South West Coast Regions
- Annamarie Ferris – Store manager for the CVS on West Mission Road
- Marie Joyce – Senior Field Representative for Senator Mark Wyland
And, click here to learn about this year’s 2014 CVS/Caremark Student Award of Excellence.
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