The CFS Workforce Committee is excited to announce the March Employees of the Month: Ernesto Franco in New York and Olusola Olawumi in New Jersey. Both individuals represent the best part of the organization, and are a joy to work with. Congratulations to you both!
Ernesto Franco – March Employee of the Month in New York
Ernesto Franco has worked for CFS for 13 Years and 5 Months as an admin assistant. Ernesto brings his best foot forward each day he steps in the office. Ernesto prides himself on being a professional and continues to build positive relationships with his supervisors and co-workers through the years. Ernesto works effectively with colleagues, fostering a positive and collaborative team environment, and demonstrates exceptional job knowledge and skill. Ernesto takes initiative to go above and beyond job requirements. Ernesto attends each New Employee Orientation training and presents a speech of what it is like being employed by CFS. Ernesto proved his resilience in the face of setback and changes. During the pandemic Ernesto was laid off and Ernesto ensured once he was able to return to work, he advocated for his position back at the main office. Since the pandemic Ernesto has adapted well to new policies and procedures. Ernesto is continuously consistent in all what he does with little or no assistance. Ernesto has owned his craft and is deserving of employee of the month award as part of the admin team.
Ernesto expressed deep gratitude for this recognition and shared his excitement about sharing this information with his family members. He added some words of wisdom for us all: “My advice to all is if you like this job like I have, just stick with it.”
Bewonadine, CFS’ coordinator of Training & Staff Development, said, “I want to share my appreciation for Ernesto. During New Employee Orientation, Ernesto has a special way of sharing his experiences that helps others understand what it means to stand up for what’s right. He talks about his efforts to stop the use of the hurtful “R-word” and how he stood up against it through protests. This story is not just moving; it teaches us about courage and respect. He’s also great at helping our staff figure things out at work. Ernesto shows them how to ask the right questions, listen well, and use what they learn to get better at their jobs.”
Olusola Olawumi – Employee of the Month in New Jersey
Olusola Olawumi, who is known as DJ, works as a Lead Instructor at Union Day Program in New Jersey. He has been working with CFS for more than 5 years. He started working as an Instructor, but his dedication and work ethic granted him to be promoted to Lead instructor almost two years ago. He is exceptionally responsive to his duties and can interpret the most complex instructions. He is a resource for the staff and the people he supports at the Day Program. He has garnered nothing but respect from his peers and they view him as a good example of hard work and dedication right now. His interpersonal and communication skills have allowed him to develop productive working relationships with both our SR and our staff. He is also ready to help in all our Group Home in New Jersey, so far helping at East Francis, Nathan Court, Clifton, and Bloomfield, or any other Group Home that needs his help In New Jersey.
