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Kids & Family

Joseph Karp of Pleasantville named "Employee of the Year"

Ability Beyond, one of the nation’s most respected service providers for people living with disabilities, has honored 25-year-old Joseph Karp of Pleasantville, New York with its prestigious Employee of the Year Award for his outstanding work ethic and contributions to Walgreens located in Thornwood.

Mr. Karp received his award at a recent breakfast celebrating Disability Employment Month.  The Employee of the Year Award honors an individual served by Ability Beyond who has overcome obstacles and challenges to succeed on the job and who has demonstrated a commitment to the employer’s mission. The breakfast also recognized the contributions of local businesses and major corporations that help make Ability Beyond’s work possible.

Working with Ability Beyond’s employment services program, Mr. Karp was hired at Walgreens in April 2012.  During his 18-month tenure, he has moved from part-time status to full-time and has taken on more responsibility with each passing month.  Initially hired to assist the photo lab technician, he soon began stocking shelves, checking for expired products and cashiering.  As a cashier, Mr. Karp has been recognized as “employee of the month” – achieving the highest sales numerous times. 

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Thomas H. Fanning, President & CEO of Ability Beyond, said, “Within each person we serve at Ability Beyond, there is untapped potential. And with the support of our dedicated corporate partners and employers like Walgreens, we are able to help thousands of people like Mr. Karp discover, build and celebrate their abilities. I congratulate Joe for all his hard work and for setting such an extraordinary example for so many others.”

With excellent punctuality and attendance records, Mr. Karp also shows extraordinary attention to detail.  He always overcomes barriers by asking for help when needed.

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Don Cialini, store manager at Walgreens Thornwood, said “Joe is an extremely reliable employee who is always ready and willing to work. He always puts in 100% effort.” 

Also honored at the breakfast was 44-year-old Jamie Youngberg of Danbury, Connecticut who was presented with Ability Beyond’s “Longevity Award” for his 23 years of outstanding employment at Stop & Shop in Danbury, CT. 

Top business awards were presented to GE Capital, the Corporate Volunteer of the Year; Curtis Instruments, the Distinguished Partner of the Year; Boehringer Ingelheim, the Business Leadership Award; and Dollar Tree, the Employer of the Year.

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