VERC Enterprises CEO Leo Vercollone guest speaker at Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress event

BOSTON - Oct. 12, 2015 - PRLog -- Leo Vercollone, CEO of VERC Enterprises, a leading convenience store and Mobil/Gulf gasoline operator with locations throughout Eastern Massachusetts and New Hampshire, was a guest speaker at a recent event to kick-off the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress’ (www.mdsc.org) “Your Next Star” campaign.

Held at Boston’s TD Garden on October 1^st, the event officially unveiled the www.yournextstar.com website.  The website features a video showcasing several individuals with Down syndrome at work.

Vercollone addressed the MDSC’s campaign, one that seeks to open employers’ eyes to the power of people with Down syndrome in the workforce.  The campaign was launched in an effort to help employers understand the value of hiring those with Down syndrome, create conversation on the subject, and ultimately change employers’ perceptions and hiring practices for the better.

“Their poise, presence and self-satisfaction shine through, just the same as anyone who enjoys and takes pride in their work,” said Vercollone, whose company, for the past twenty years, has been a champion for hiring people with intellectual and physical disabilities. Today, more than 20% of VERC’s workforce is comprised of those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“As a long-time proponent of hiring people with disabilities, I am keenly aware that by working with agencies that facilitate and promote opportunities for individuals with physical or mental disabilities we supply much more than a paycheck,” said Vercollone.  “I applaud the MDSC and its mission to ensure that people with Down syndrome in Massachusetts are valued, included and given opportunities to pursue fulfilling lives and careers.”

The Boston Bruins and Market Basket supermarket chain were also recognized during the event for their ongoing commitment to hiring people with Down syndrome.

About VERC Enterprises

VERC Enterprises is the region’s leading, independent chain of convenience stores, gasoline stations and car washes with 26 locations throughout Eastern Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire.  The company began 40 years ago with a single car wash in Marshfield, a business founded by Eugene Vercollone. Today two of Mr. Vercollone’s sons operate the company, with Leo as President and Paul as Vice President. The firm has more than 260 employees and is a leader in hiring those with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. In 2011 VERC Enterprises was recognized by the Boston Business Journal as a Best Place to Work in Massachusetts and as a Leader in Diversity and in 2011, 2012 and 2013 by the Boston Globe as a Best Place to Work in Massachusetts. For additional information, please visit the website, www.vercenterprises.com, or call 781-934-7300.