Mineola, N.Y. - County Executive Thomas R. Suozzi, together with Dr. John Imhof, Deputy Commissioner of the Nassau County Department of Drug and Alcohol Addiction, today presented the awards at the First Annual Work and Gainful Employment Services (WAGES) Business Awards Ceremony. The awards honor Nassau County business leaders who have opened their doors to people in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction.

"I am pleased to honor these Nassau businesses that have worked together with this wonderful Nassau County program to help recovering residents gain employment," County Executive Suozzi said. "This is a win-win situation for everyone."

The WAGES Program was created about two years ago to help residents recovering from drug and alcohol addiction prepare for employment. The program offers a variety of services including counseling, help with interviewing skills, presentation and resumes. WAGES then meets the needs of local business by matching them with program clients based on their skills, personality and capabilities.

"The message to everyone is that "Recovery Works!" People with substance abuse problems who have made a commitment to successful recovery will be pleased to know there are many employment opportunities available to them through our Nassau County WAGES program," said Dr. Imhof.