National Disability Employment Awareness Month is a time to celebrate the invaluable contributions that disabled workers make to our workplaces and communities, and Kaylee’s story at Hawthorne Ridge in East Greenbush perfectly captures that spirit.
As an integral part of the dining services team, Kaylee takes on a wide range of responsibilities that keep daily operations running smoothly. From keeping up with dishwashing to bussing tables, preparing coffee, and ensuring the dining area is welcoming for everyone, her hard work creates a seamless experience for both residents and staff.
A central part of Kaylee’s workplace experience is the supportive community she has found among her teammates, whom she warmly describes as fun, sweet, and always capable of making her laugh. Supportive co-workers play a critical role in fostering a truly inclusive environment where employees with disabilities feel welcomed, respected, and valued for who they are. When colleagues build genuine connections, offer everyday support, and create a culture of camaraderie, it bridges gaps and ensures that workplace inclusion moves beyond policy into an everyday reality where everyone can thrive.
For Kaylee, having a job goes far beyond her daily tasks, it is a cornerstone of her personal growth, self-reliance, and freedom. Earning her own money and managing her own bank account allows her to stand on her own two feet without depending on her parents, giving her the pride and confidence that comes with true financial independence. As Kaylee explains, gaining that level of autonomy allows her to be her own person, an empowering experience that transforms how she sees herself and her future.
Leadership at Hawthorne Ridge recognizes just how vital team members like Kaylee are to their culture and success. Andrey Matseyev, Director of Dining at Hawthorne Ridge, emphasizes that hiring people with disabilities is an essential, highly valued pillar of their organization under St. Peter’s Health Care. Inclusive hiring practices enrich the entire workplace, bringing dedicated talent, diverse perspectives, and a stronger sense of unity to the team.