Business Partner Receives Iowa Employer Award

posted on Friday, November 15, 2024

Melanie Zimmerman, Manager at the Village Inn in Cedar Falls, Iowa, is a shining example of leadership in disability inclusion in the workplace. Recently recognized with the Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE) Iowa Employer Award, Melanie’s dedication to creating a welcoming, supportive, and empowering environment has had a profound impact on her employees, Village Inn, and the broader community. Her journey highlights the power of inclusive employment and the ways in which commitment to accessibility can reshape workplaces.

Surrounded by EPI team members who gathered to share a meal and celebrate this prestigious honor, Melanie holds her award. The inscription reads, "For the passionate and endless effort to increase inclusive employment for Iowans with disabilities."

For Melanie, inclusion goes beyond hiring; it’s about building a culture that values each person’s abilities. She has committed to hiring and retaining individuals with disabilities, fostering a team at the Village Inn that mirrors the diversity of Cedar Falls itself. Under her guidance, Village Inn has become a model workplace for disability inclusion, proving that diverse teams are stronger, more resilient, and a benefit to everyone involved.

Melanie’s impact on the workplace is evident in the culture she’s built. Through training and open communication, she has established a work environment that prioritizes mutual respect and understanding. This inclusive culture not only makes employees feel valued but also encourages them to give their best, knowing that their contributions are both appreciated and supported.

One of Melanie's coworkers, Becky, shares while proudly displaying her one year pin, "I celebrated one whole year here and I love it."

Becky has enjoyed getting to know her coworkers, and one of her favorite memories with them, she shared, was the Christmas party her work team hosted at local arcade, where she challenged friends to ski ball, ate some delicious pizza, and shared laughs with new friends - one friend being the very ride that got her there and home that night.

What truly sets Melanie apart is her dedication to understanding and supporting the individual needs of her team members. She works closely with each person to learn their strengths, challenges, and career aspirations.

By offering reasonable accommodations and flexible scheduling, she creates an environment where each employee can thrive, grow, and achieve their goals. This person-centered approach has had a transformative effect on her employees, giving them the chance to enjoy financial independence, a sense of purpose, and a welcoming workplace.

However, Melanie’s efforts resonate far beyond the walls of Village Inn. Her commitment to inclusion has earned her the admiration of both customers and community members who value diversity in local businesses. Village Inn has become a symbol of how one person’s leadership can create ripples of positive change, inspiring others to recognize the talents and contributions of individuals with disabilities.

Receiving the APSE Iowa Employer Award is a fitting tribute to Melanie Zimmerman’s exceptional dedication to disability inclusion in employment. Her proactive, person-centered approach serves as an inspiration, demonstrating how a supportive work environment benefits not just employees but the entire community. With leaders like Melanie, we’re reminded that inclusive workplaces lead to a brighter, more compassionate future for everyone.

Congratulations, Melanie, on this well-deserved recognition—your commitment is paving the way for a better tomorrow.

If you're inspired by Melanie's story to join our ever-growing list of business partners, reach out today by filling out the contact us form or by giving us a call at 319-232-6671.