BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — National Disability Employment Awareness Month happens every year in October, and celebrates people who have disabilities and their contributions in the workforce.

What You Need To Know

  • October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month and celebrates people with disabilities in the workplace

  • The Hive, a nonprofit in Bowling Green who helps those with disabilities, helps with the transition to the workforce

  • Ginna Greer, a member of The Hive, has worked at Meltdown Ice Cream & Soda Fountain since they opened in Oct. 2022

  • According to Susan Warrell, owner of Meltdown Ice Cream & Soda Fountain, Greer is an example of why inclusivity in the workplace is important

A nonprofit known as The Hive helps people with disabilities navigate daily life. The organization also helps them adjust to the workforce while also promoting positive behavior while on the job. 

“Every Thursday morning we talk about the workplace,” The Hive founder Laura Orsland said. “We talk about enthusiasm, and how to bounce back even when you don’t get everything right.”

Many of the teachings resonate with the members of The Hive. One member in particular, Ginna Greer, was given an opportunity to work at Meltdown Ice Cream & Soda Fountain. And now, she can show off her passions of making people happy while giving them tasty treats.

“I like greeting people, I like to make people’s drinks, I love working here,” Ginna said.

Greer has been working at the ice cream shop since day one, when they opened in Oct. 2022. Susan Warrell, the owner of Meltdown Ice Cream & Soda Fountain, had hired her several employees prior to the grand opening. Warrell immediately knew Greer was a perfect fit.

“Remembering that phone call to Ginna, and just asking if she would like to be a part of our team, I think I heard her jumping up and down,” Warrell said. “She was very excited. She accepted our offer, and I was really grateful for our team.”

For about a year, Greer has accumulated a positive reputation for her willingness to socialize with customers and her eagerness to perform tasks such as cleaning dishes, earning her the nickname “Chief Bottle Washer.”

According to Warrell, Greer is an example of why inclusivity in the workplace is important. She says it promotes empathy, patience and overall brings a more friendly atmosphere.

“I think it helps all of us learn to be better humans, no matter our abilities or disabilities,” Warrell said.

“I’m just happy Ginna is a part of our team. We value everyone’s abilities and talents here. We work better as a team and a whole when use all of our abilities,” Warrell shared.

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