The Center for Human Services (CHS) recognized State Fair Community College as an Outstanding Community Partner during their annual Recognition Luncheon on June 19 at the Sedalia Country Club. The award recognizes organizations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
SFCC shared the honor with the Marshall Knights of Columbus in recognition of each organization’s partnership with CHS Employment Services and its dedication to workforce development and community inclusion.
The award was presented by Nikki Smith, Employment Services Professional Manager for CHS in Sedalia. Smith recognized SFCC’s collaboration with CHS during its high school pre-employment training program this spring, which provided students with authentic, hands-on workplace experiences across campus.
“State Fair Community College has been an outstanding and transformative community partner through its collaboration with our employment services team on our high school pre-employment training program this spring,” Smith said. “State Fair Community College created authentic, hands-on learning opportunities that moved beyond observation and allowed students to actively contribute in real workplace settings.”
Through a partnership with SFCC’s Facilities Management Department, students gained real-world work experience by assisting with building maintenance, inventory organization, cleaning projects and the college’s internal campus mail system.
Smith said the college established and maintained workplace expectations that helped students develop accountability, professionalism, teamwork and job readiness while allowing them to make meaningful contributions to campus operations.
Students also worked in SFCC’s greenhouse and maintained garden plots where they grew produce and flowers to sell at local farmers markets, giving them the opportunity to explore entrepreneurship and self-employment.
“Throughout the partnership, State Fair Community College demonstrated flexibility and respect by accommodating students’ diverse skill sets, learning styles and comprehension levels without lowering expectations,” Smith said. “The college’s inclusive approach and commitment to workforce development exemplify the spirit of an Outstanding Community Partner.”
“Receiving this award is an honor because it reflects our commitment to creating meaningful learning experiences for all members of our community,” said SFCC President Dr. Brent Bates. “We value our partnership with the Center for Human Services and are proud to help provide opportunities that prepare students for success in the workplace.”
The Center for Human Services is a Missouri nonprofit organization that serves individuals of all ages by helping them develop the skills needed to overcome physical, mental and financial challenges. Through programs focused on education, employment, therapy, housing, counseling and community engagement, CHS works to empower individuals to achieve greater independence and improve their quality of life.
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