Connecting with inclusive workplaces

Every October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month shines a spotlight on the contributions of workers with disabilities and the importance of inclusive workplaces. But for the Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities (LCBDD)/Deepwood, creating employment opportunities is a year-round mission—connecting adults who are eligible to receive services with local employers to find jobs that are just as meaningful to employers as they are to employees.

“Business owners find that individuals with disabilities add overall value to a business,” says Katie Debly, LCBDD employment navigator. “They are dependable, bring unique perspectives and strengthen the culture of businesses.”

One such standout employee is Cory. After building job skills at Auburn Career Center, he attended the LCBDD Community Job Fair in March 2025, where he connected with Winking Lizard. The restaurant invited him to shadow for a day. After seeing him in action, they offered him a job.

Now, more than a year later, Cory continues to thrive at Winking Lizard. He works as a dish machine operator and buses tables at the Mentor restaurant, giving him opportunities to interact with both staff and diners.

“I was nervous a little bit about some things when I started working, but not anymore,” Cory says. “If I see that someone is nervous, I try to make them laugh.”

The job has helped Cory build friendships and become part of the team. 

“Cory is the most positive employee we have and is such a good soul,” says Dominic Moraco, general manager of Winking Lizard in Mentor. “He comes in every day singing and in a great mood. He brings his infectious energy to the restaurant as soon as he walks in, and it stays that way until he clocks out.”

“Cory has such a gregarious personality that everyone loves being around him,” Dominic adds. “Just as importantly, he keeps up with all his tasks in such a busy restaurant.”

Winking Lizard has been an inclusive employer for decades, recognizing the contributions employees with disabilities bring to the workforce. By integrating employees with disabilities into its staff, the company has helped foster a culture where everyone feels valued and empowered to succeed. 

That kind of connection is at the heart of LCBDD’s employment program. 

“We provide the connections, which is the domino effect of everything that follows,” Katie says. “The employment navigators then remain in contact with employees if they need any job coaching or help finding transportation to work.”

“Our goal is to support individuals on their path toward employment, as well as to build connections with local employers,” Katie says. “We host Community Job Fairs twice a year and quarterly workforce connection meetings, bringing together employers and employment professionals to build opportunities and strengthen collaborations—all to increase inclusive employment in Lake County.”

“My job is so rewarding. I appreciate being a part of someone’s journey, like Cory, who wants to pursue independent employment,” she says. “It’s a job with purpose.”

And who knows where his journey will lead? Cory hopes to one day be a YouTuber and an actor in a TV show. With the confidence, connections and experience he is gaining today, his future is wide open, and LCBDD is proud to be a part of the journey.

Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities

8121 Deepwood Boulevard, Mentor

440-350-5145  

LakeBDD.org