Cottonwood Inc. has awarded its annual JobLink Outstanding Community Employer Award to The Oread and The Eldridge Hotels. For the last 10 years, The Olivia Collection, which is the hotels’ holding company, has employed Cottonwood Inc.’s clients. Three individuals currently serve various roles at the hotels. “These three staff members make sure the little details of cleanliness and comfort are tended to. It’s great to have our staff visit and interact with them. I just wanted to make their life more meaningful. It’s just something I’m very passionate about,” said Nancy Longhurst, General Manager of The Oread and Eldridge. There are 144 local businesses and organizations that partner with Cottonwood to provide employment to individuals with disabilities. Cottonwood Inc. is the city’s largest organization serving individuals with disabilities. The hotel properties were honored with the award in late September. “I think the most important qualities JobLink looks for its host partners are great communication, people who will really provide natural support – a place where our job seeker will be surrounded by people who are wanting them to be successful,” said Keri Rodriquez, Business account Manager of Cottonwood’s JobLink. |
The Oread, Lawrence’s premiere property located on the north edge of KU’s campus, offers 99 rooms, breath-taking views from two terraces, bar, restaurant, pizzeria, award-winning wine list, free wi-fi, and fully equipped meeting and social spaces.
The Eldridge Hotel, built in 1925, is located at the intersection of 7th and Massachusetts streets in the heart of Downtown Lawrence. The Eldridge’s design features 48 large, well-appointed suites; warm valet and concierge services; award-winning wine list; free wi-fi; and innovative meeting spaces in the main building and at the extended-stay property, Eldridge Extended, 201 W. 8th St.
The Olivia Collection, the holding company for the two boutique hotels, employs 250 community members, depending on the season, who are bright and service-oriented. They look forward to being of service to you!
About Cottonwood, Inc.
Cottonwood, Inc. is a 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit organization that was established in 1972 to provide services to individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities. Over the years, Cottonwood has earned a reputation for quality services and care as a community service provider. In 1995, Cottonwood was awarded an additional responsibility through the Developmental Disability Reform Act. It became the Community Developmental Disabilities Organization (CDDO) for Douglas and Jefferson counties. As the CDDO, Cottonwood is the single point of entry connecting individuals of all ages with developmental disabilities to the network of services in this area.