At Living Resources, our Supported Employment Program (SEMP) is built on the foundation of empowering individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities to find meaningful work and build lasting careers. Today, we have a truly extraordinary story to share, one that defines the very essence of dedication and joy in the workplace.

This month marked Maurice’s 70th birthday! While many might choose to spend their 70th relaxing at home, Maurice celebrated the milestone exactly where he wanted to be, at work. But the birthday candles are only part of the story. This year, Maurice also celebrates an incredible 25 years as a valued employee at Hannaford.

In an era where job-hopping is common, a 25-year tenure is a monumental achievement. Maurice has become a fixture of his local Hannaford, serving store patrons and supporting his team with a level of consistency that is nothing short of inspiring.

His supervisor, Candy, sums up his impact perfectly, “He comes to work every day with a smile on his face. We love him!”

Success stories like Maurice’s are why we do what we do. Lori, a Living Resources Career Counselor, has had the privilege of supporting Maurice’s SEMP goals for the last 11 years. “It’s been a pleasure working with him,” Lori shares. “Seeing his dedication to his job, the store patrons, and his fellow employees over the last decade has been a highlight of my career.”

Maurice’s journey highlights several key truths about inclusive employment. Reliability: Long-term employees like Maurice provide stability and institutional knowledge. Community: Work is more than a paycheck; it’s a place for social connection and mutual respect. Potential: With the right support from programs like SEMP, individuals with I/DD can achieve decades-long career success.

Congratulations, Maurice! Thank you for showing us all what true commitment looks like. Your Living Resources family and your Hannaford team are so proud of everything you’ve accomplished. Here’s to 70 years of life and 25 years of excellence!

We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Hannaford for their steadfast commitment to inclusive employment. By fostering a workplace where Maurice has thrived for 25 years, Hannaford demonstrates the power of looking beyond a diagnosis to see the talent, reliability, and heart an individual brings to the team. Their partnership with our Supported Employment Program (SEMP) is a shining example of how local businesses can champion diversity, proving that when we provide the right environment, every employee has the opportunity to reach incredible milestones.

To learn more about our Employment Services, visit https://www.livingresources.org/services/employment-services/.