BCArc Partner and Employee Earn Awards from the Area’s Citizen Advisory Board of Mass. Dept. of Developmental Services

Reach for the Stars Award

Miribai Dyson from the office of State Rep. Tricia Farley Bouvier, presenting Cliff with a document on behalf the Mass. House of Representatives.

They call it the “Reach for the Stars” Award. Cliff does not see himself that way, but the people he supports and works with describe him that way.

“I just try to do my job,” Cliff Love says after receiving the award. Not true – he does far more. As a key player in BCArc’s School to Career program, Cliff has helped countless students in numerous high schools prepare for employment, and build general life skills to succeed after high school. You will find him at evening events meeting families, running the Rainbow Group, and working with all departments inside BCArc to align efforts.

“He’s an incredible asset to the Agency,” said Pam Kight, Director of Employment & Community-Based Day Services. “He works and motivates everyone with his mix of caring and humor.”

Unsung Hero Award to Owners of The Heritage

Jeff with award winner Becky of The  Heritage restaurant in Lenox.

Owners Becky Piccolo and Rachel Borrett of The Olde Heritage Tavern in Lenox do far more than “employ” Jeffrey. They consider him part of the family team and include him in every employee activity.

He is their celebrity bartender, the guest singer on live music nights, competes on Family Feud nights, and joins the owners at their exercise classes.

Jeffrey has resisted family vacations when they interfere with his commitment to the job.

Pam introducing Cliff before presenting the award.

The owners expanded his role from back kitchen to bussing tables, and took the time to train him. Jeff attends staff meetings, staff celebrations, and treated like every other employee.

“Becky and Rachel consistently go above and beyond what is typically asked of employers” said Regan Carlotto, an Employment Manager at BCArc who nominated the employers. “They assist with transportation when needed, ensure Jeffrey is never left out, and treat him with dignity, empathy, and respect. Their impact may not always be widely recognized, but for Jeffrey and his family, it has been life changing.”