PRIDE Industries Champions Inclusive Employment for All

PRIDE Industries Celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month

PRIDE Industries, a trailblazer in providing employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, stands proudly in anticipation of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). This important campaign takes place every October and is supported by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy. It aims to raise awareness about employment issues concerning individuals with disabilities while celebrating their contributions to the workforce. This year’s theme highlights ‘Access to Good Jobs for All,’ underscoring the necessity for inclusivity in professional environments.

The Importance of Access to Employment

“The theme of this year’s NDEAM emphasizes the critical need for accessibility in employment,” stated Jeff Dern, President and CEO of PRIDE Industries. “People with disabilities often don’t get involved in notable discussions on workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion. At PRIDE Industries, we’re dedicated to altering that narrative. Our mission fundamentally revolves around normalizing inclusion in various workplaces to empower individuals with disabilities towards independence.”

Statistics on Disability Employment

Statistics reveal that over 10 percent of working-age Americans have a disability. Yet the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that only around 30 percent of these individuals participate in the workforce, in stark contrast to a participation rate of approximately 75 percent for those without disabilities. PRIDE Industries has been at the forefront of addressing this gap, initiating efforts since 1966 to enhance employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Innovative Programs and Initiatives

Through comprehensive employment programs, PRIDE Industries aims to dismantle barriers and cultivate opportunities for individuals with disabilities in various sectors, including facilities and supply chain management, manufacturing, and packaging. One such initiative is the I AM ABLE Employment Helpline, a unique bilingual service established in 2021. This helpline has successfully connected over 7,000 individuals to employment opportunities and relevant community resources, resulting in over 200 participants securing jobs with a total estimated income of $5 million.

Empowering Youth Through Employment Services

Furthermore, the Youth Employment Services (YES!) program plays a pivotal role in assisting young individuals aged 16 to 24 with disabilities. This program also reaches youth who have experienced challenges like involvement in the child welfare or juvenile justice systems, and those facing homelessness or poverty. The YES! program equips participants with essential skills to thrive in their desired careers and establish independence. Since its inception in July 2022, YES! has provided significant support:

• 113 youths benefitted from comprehensive support including case management and work readiness training.
• 9 participants engaged in paid internship programs or subsidized jobs.
• 31 individuals achieved job placements without subsidy.
• 35 young adults received ongoing support for career retention in their chosen fields.

No Barriers to Employment

In the previous year, PRIDE Industries proudly launched the I AM ABLE Disability Job Fair, an event tailored specifically for jobseekers with disabilities. This fully accessible gathering brought together over 600 candidates alongside more than two dozen employers seeking dedicated workers. On the upcoming October 9, an expanded version of this event will feature nearly 40 companies and various nonprofit organizations, all committed to providing valuable employment resources.

Driving Change in the Employment Landscape

“At PRIDE Industries, we support over 3,500 individuals with disabilities as they navigate their employment paths,” Dern remarked. “We firmly believe in offering everyone the opportunity to work and achieve their full potential. Our daily operational successes demonstrate the tangible benefits of inclusivity in the workforce. We strive to show other companies that if we can foster such an inclusive culture, they can too.”

About PRIDE Industries

PRIDE Industries is a distinguished social enterprise dedicated to achieving business excellence while making a positive social impact. Founded in 1966, the organization specializes in providing facilities operations and maintenance services, custodial services, contract manufacturing, supply chain management, packaging and fulfillment services, and placement services for both public and private organizations across the nation. The mission of PRIDE Industries is to create meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, emphasizing personalized support to help them realize their true potential and lead more independent lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is National Disability Employment Awareness Month?

National Disability Employment Awareness Month is a campaign aimed at raising awareness about disability employment issues and celebrating the contributions of workers with disabilities.

What is the theme for NDEAM this year?

This year's theme is 'Access to Good Jobs for All', emphasizing the need for inclusivity in the workplace.

How does PRIDE Industries support individuals with disabilities?

PRIDE Industries provides various programs such as the I AM ABLE Employment Helpline and the Youth Employment Services program to aid individuals in gaining skills, finding jobs, and achieving independence.

What significant impact has the I AM ABLE Employment Helpline had?

The helpline has connected over 7,000 individuals with employment programs and resources, resulting in more than 200 job placements and five million dollars in wages.

What was the purpose of the I AM ABLE Disability Job Fair?

The job fair was created to connect job seekers with disabilities to employers and resources in an inclusive environment, supporting their employment journeys.

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