The Andrew’s Place executive director was honored for his unceasing efforts to create a society that is more just and equal.
DETROIT — After a successful career in information technology (IT), Patrick Romzek committed his post-retirement years to disability advocacy.
Additionally, Romzek believes that everyone has talent, abilities, and potential. His son Andrew was born with Down syndrome. As such, he is passionate about helping those with disabilities.
“My son and my work served as my inspiration,” Romzek stated. “That prompted the establishment of IT training institutes for the disabled, which prompted the creation of Andrew’s Place.”
Romzek serves as executive director of Andrew’s Place, a nonprofit organization with its headquarters located in Northville, Michigan. Its mission is to help persons with disabilities thrive by providing them with the tools and opportunities they require to live in a more equitable society.
“It was my goal to help people get jobs in IT when I started our flagship program,” Romzek stated. Although I was aware that there were many IT jobs available, the company I worked for at the time was having trouble finding qualified candidates. Everything else flowed from my knowledge that there were disabled persons who merely desired a chance to prove themselves.
In honor of Romzek’s unselfish work, the Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Tigers, and Comerica Bank will continue their Game Changers series throughout Disability Pride Month in July.
Romzek praised Comerica Bank, the Red Wings, and the Tigers for their attention to [Disability Pride Month]. “There are many groups that support the voiceless, but there are just as many that ignore these folks who are just like you and me. They had various difficulties from birth.
In order to support young people with disabilities attending Catholic schools, Andrew’s Place also provides scholarship programs. Romzek, a devout Catholic, claimed that his work is inspired by his faith.
“While Andrew’s Place engages in a variety of activities, our primary goal is to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities,” Romzek stated. Their lives at work, our initiatives, and their spiritual lives. Our activity in the Catholic church is extensive.
People with disabilities—like his son, according to Romzek—are inspirational.
“Learning to walk or use a toilet are challenges for people with disabilities,” Romzek said. However, things that we take for granted cause great difficulties for those who are disabled. They truly possess perseverance and a strong will to succeed.
According to Romzek, the significance of the Game Changers platform lies in its ability to foster community cohesion through awareness-raising and charitable support.
“The Red Wings and Tigers are well-known to all,” Romzek remarked. Thus, this can increase awareness of the difficulties faced by those with disabilities as well as those who are changing things.