(Photos courtesy of Sarah Rachael Photography)
CSAAC Foundation and Diversity Committee Sponsor Events
Multicultural Awareness and Employee Appreciation Days A Huge Success!
In December 2005, close to 250 CSAAC employees were honored at events—held at the Lake Marion Community Center in Montgomery Village, Maryland—for their dedication to CSAAC’s mission and performance throughout the year. The events were also held to celebrate multicultural awareness, an initiative spearheaded by CSAAC’s Diversity Committee. The theme, “Multicultural Celebration,” encouraged employees to wear attire and bring items representing their cultural heritage. The participation, which included beautiful displays of costumes and art from many countries around the world, contributed to an atmosphere that was festive and rich with culture.
A DJ kept attendees on their feet, and CSAAC’s new logo launched earlier this year, was unveiled to new staff. Employees also received a CSAAC tote bag and sweatshirt featuring the new brand. Ayda Sanver, Director of Community Development, CSAAC Foundation, who spearheaded the branding initiative, emceed the event, and encouraged employees to participate in CSAAC’s United Way campaign.
Staff was also introduced to Wayne Williams, Assistant Executive Director of People Services, who will oversee the newly-named human resources department: People Services. Williams led employees in a chant of CSAAC’s new tag line—included in the new brand—“enhancing the lives of individuals with autism.”
Joseph Gousie, Executive Director, CSAAC, presented awards to two CSAAC homes in recognition of staff's outstanding performance to improve and enhance their quality. CSAAC's Rockville Square home was recognized as most improved, and English Orchard for most detail-oriented
Also in attendance were Jane Salzano, founder, CSAAC; Victor Pfeiffer, Vice President, Board of Directors, CSAAC; and Sam Lattner, Treasurer, CSAAC, and they thanked everyone for their hard work and commitment.
The event provided a platform for CSAAC’s leadership to inspire staff with current happenings in the organization, and applaud and honor a hardworking team of talented professionals. Attendees had a great time, and the events were a huge success.
Formed in the fall of 2005 and under the leadership of Gousie, the objective of CSAAC’s Diversity Committee is to encourage diversity awareness, while also inspiring and promoting young professional staff members to develop and enhance their leadership skills. Committee members include: Alex Koutta, Chair; Craig Pardini; Stonie Baker; Brandi Best; Jerry Taraway; Abba Sackey; Sarah Savage; Javier Marius; Ayda Sanver; Bryan Pashigian; and Kay Inoue.
To learn more about CSAAC’s Diversity Committee contact committee Chair, Alex Koutta at (240) 912-2220 or via e-mail at akoutta@csaac.org.
To learn more about CSAAC, visit www.csaac.org or call (240) 912.2220.
