Camp Bow Wow Receives MRCI’s Community Impact Award in Celebration of National Disability Employment Awareness Month

In honor of the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), MRCI is proud to present its Community Impact Award to Camp Bow Wow in Burnsville, recognizing their outstanding commitment to inclusive employment and partnership with MRCI.

NDEAM, celebrated each October, commemorates the vital contributions of workers with disabilities and promotes inclusive employment practices across the nation. This year’s milestone anniversary of 80 years highlights decades of progress and the ongoing need to expand access to meaningful work for all. As an employment-first organization, MRCI is dedicated to ensuring individuals with disabilities can work in integrated settings and contribute to their communities.

Camp Bow Wow exemplifies this mission! Owner Andrew Meek has shown exceptional leadership in creating customized roles for MRCI clients, even when no formal job openings existed. When approached about hiring an MRCI participant, Andrew observed how he responded to the sensory environment of the doggy daycare and offered him a cleaning role tailored to his strengths.

Andrew’s inclusive mindset didn’t stop there. He has since hired additional MRCI clients, making thoughtful accommodations and fostering a workplace culture where individuals with disabilities are welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed.

“Andrew Meek and Camp Bow Wow are true champions of inclusive employment,” said Bob Roepke, MRCI Board member. “Their creativity, compassion, and commitment to our clients reflect the very spirit of National Disability Employment Awareness Month. We are proud to honor them with this award.”

The Community Impact Award celebrates organizations that go above and beyond in supporting MRCI’s mission to create innovative and meaningful opportunities for people with disabilities. Camp Bow Wow joins a distinguished group of past recipients who demonstrate the power of community partnerships to transform lives.