Steven works at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden as part of Easterseals Redwood‘s Work & Grow program keeping Manatee Springs and the World of Insect house clean for guests to enjoy.

“We get thanked and complimented a lot by other Zoo employees. That acknowledgment feels good,” says Steven. “I love the job. I don’t feel judged for my disability. No one is labeling us. We’re just one of the employees at the Zoo.”

Steven also volunteers at The Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center at Cincinnati Museum Center, where he conducts educational seminars about the harms of labeling people. He was recently honored as a 2024 Upstander nominee for being a changemaker in his community who embodies the spirit of standing up for what’s right.

“When I first met Steven at the Museum Center, I was so impressed by his passion for the importance of self-advocacy for people with disabilities. I wasn’t surprised to hear that others saw the same and were equally impressed,” said Pam Green, President and CEO of Easterseals Redwood.

Thank you, Steven, for the joy and positive impact you bring to our community. Learn more about the Work & Grow program and other employment opportunities for adults with disabilities: https://www.eastersealsredwood.org/…/employment…/