Joe Marchese, of the Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society, will be the keynote speaker for ‘Power Hour,’ presented by the Savannah Area Chamber’s Small Business Council on Tuesday, Sept. 12. His presentation will highlight the "Top Ten Ways to Contract and Utilize Workers with Different Abilities.”

Marchese, who is a past president and one of the founding members of LDSS, owns Marchese Construction and has more than eighteen years experience in the construction industry. He is also an accredited professional through the United States Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Program.

Marchese’s professional experience, in combination with his involvement with LDSS, has given him a unique perspective on hiring and working with people of different abilities.

“People with different abilities can bring diversity, a fresh perspective and growth to any community,” said Marchese. “I am excited to have the opportunity to communicate this important message to Savannah’s leaders and business influencers.”

LDSS strives to create a community that accepts and includes all of its members, including people with Down Syndrome and their families. Its activism extends from the Camp Buddy summer program for children with different abilities to the Buddy Walk and Night of Champions.

Savannah’s Small Business Council hosts the Savannah Area Chamber Power Hour each month, offering an opportunity for guest speakers to present topics relevant to small business owners and employees. For more information on the Chamber Power Hour, visit: http://www.savannahchamber.com.

This month’s Chamber Power Hour will be held from 11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. in the Savannah Morning News Auditorium, 1375 Chatham Parkway. The meeting will include a lunch catered by Vincenzo’s Italian Restaurant & Catering. Chamber members and guests can RSVP by emailing Stephanie Painter at [email protected].