The Greater Pittsburgh Supported Employment Association in conjunction with Allegheny East MH/MR Center, Inc. annually presents this award to honor the contribution made to Supported Employment by Kathie Yandora (1948-1997), an employment specialist with both Twin Rivers Supported Employment and Allegheny East Employment Service. She was compassionate, enthusiastic, and skillful in her efforts to serve persons with disabilities, and she exemplified many of the characteristics of a superior job coach. Through this award we hope to both remember Kathie and support and encourage continued excellence among Supported Employment professionals working directly with consumers.This year several employment specialists were nominated based on their demonstration of trustworthiness, respectfulness, supportiveness, and innovation in their services with supported employees, as well as with their family, friends, and employers.

Take a look at this years winner and previous winners.