Larson Companies Wins Employment Award

V1 Staff |

An Eau Claire-based company that operates hotels and restaurants has received a statewide award for its efforts to hire workers who have overcome employment barriers. Larson Companies, was one of two firms to receive a Wisconsin Job Honors Award from Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, a statewide business group. After having difficulty filling some hospitality positions, Larson Companies worked with the state Department of Workforce Development’s Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. This led to the creation of an eight-week in-house training program for housekeepers, the success of which has led to its expansion. “(People with disadvantages) seem to do a better job in many cases than people who don’t have any challenges,” said Dick Larson, founder of Larson Companies. “We look at results, and based on that these people are outstanding.” Larson Companies operates the Holiday Inn, Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse, Clarion Inn, Green Mill Restaurant, and other properties in the Chippewa Valley.