‘Icon’ of Developmental Disabilities retires after 27 years on the job

Bill Lackey Alonzo Allen, 77, collects mail on the campus of the Clark County Board of Developmental Disabilities on Thursday, July 23. Allen is retiring from the maintenance department at the center. Staff photos by Bill Lackey

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By Bridgette Outten, Staff Writer 12:34 AM Sunday, July 26, 2009

Employees of Clark County Board of Developmental Disabilities are going to have to get used to not seeing Alonzo Allen during his daily mail runs.

His charming smile and customary proclamation that “It’s work time,” is something his co-workers say they will miss.

The 77-year-old custodian’s last day was Friday, July 24, after 27 years working at the BDD’s main campus.

Allen is developmentally disabled and receives services in his home, said BDD Superintendent Jennifer Rousculp. He was among the first clients to participate in the board’s independent living program; he’s been living on his own since 1991.

“He truly is the icon of our program,” Rousculp said. “Many, many people throughout the county know him — and he is a delight to be around.”

Allen has been at BDD longer than many of the current employees.

His closest friends at the job don’t really consider his developmental condition. “We don’t even look at him like that,” said Darnelle Welsh, administrative assistant. “He’s just Alonzo.”

Welsh added that Allen “has amazed us every step of the way,” with his dedication to his speech classes, physical fitness and his work ethic.

“He got this job, he’s retiring with benefits,” she said. “He’s been no tax burden to anyone in this community.”

Allen said he is looking forward to spending time with his niece, who lives in Columbus, and traveling in his retirement. He is especially excited to get to Las Vegas.

But he doesn’t live far from the BDD’s main campus with his dog, Pepper II, and he said he will visit.

“I’ll be back,” Allen promised.

Contact this reporter at (937) 328-0374 or boutten@coxohio.com.

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