Business, community and political leaders joined AbilityFirst, Union Bank of California, and Honorary Chairpersons Jane Kaczmarek, Lee Meriwether and Jaclyn Smith, in honoring Ralphs Supermarkets and Food 4 Less Warehouse Stores at the 2007 Inaugural AbilityFirst Expanding Possibilities Awards Luncheon on May 17 at the beautiful Dorothy Chandler Pavilion at The Music Center in downtown Los Angeles.

The outstanding efforts of these two retailers to provide inclusive career opportunities through innovative employment and training practices allow individuals with developmental disabilities the chance to compete for, and excel in, jobs. In accepting their Expanding Possibilities Awards, Ralphs Supermarkets President Dave Hirz, and Food 4 Less President Jay Cummins both acknowledged their AbilityFirst supported employees and their strong contributions to each of their companies.

During the event, Smith spoke of her commitment to, and support of, AbilityFirst. She introduced keynote speaker Chad Hymas, who shared his inspirational story of his life before and after an accident left him a quadriplegic at the age of 27. His moving speech, centering on the “Expanding Possibilities” theme, generated a rousing standing ovation from all in attendance.

Event co-chairs were George A. Ramirez, Market President, Union Bank of California and Timothy P. O’Brien, President, The Personal Branding Group. Funds raised will support AbilityFirst’s Employment Services for adults with developmental disabilities. Masters of Ceremonies for the event were Gilbert B. de Cardenas, President, Reynaldo’s Mexican Food Company and Timothy P. O’Brien.

For more event information, please email Mary Beth Perrine or phone 626.396.1010, ext. 358.