For 55 years, PRIDE Industries has provided business excellence with a social impact,” says Jeff Dern, president and CEO, of this pioneering social enterprise. “We provide competitive business services while pursuing our mission to create employment for people with disabilities.”
At the heart of PRIDE Industries’ 6,000 team members are 3,100 with disclosed disabilities. With National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) in October, the company is launching a helpline and an awareness campaign to pursue their goal of creating 100,000 jobs for people with disabilities.
“NDEAM is important to us because one of our goals is to normalize workplace inclusion.” — Jeff Dern PRIDE Industries President & CEO
“Annually in October, the Department of Labor promotes NDEAM to educate the public about disability employment issues and to celebrate the contributions of workers with disabilities,” says Leah Burdick, chief growth officer. “At PRIDE Industries, we take that concept even further. Through print and online media, we strive to recognize our business partners for hiring people with disabilities or supporting an inclusive workforce.”
PRIDE Industries has launched the most comprehensive helpline of its kind. By dialing 844-I-AM-ABLE, people with disabilities can connect to helpful resources, job training and employment opportunities. This helpline will be heavily promoted in California during NDEAM, with plans to expand nationally.
PRIDE Industries has created employment for thousands of people in jobs throughout this region over decades and encourages all employers to include people with disabilities in their workplaces. “NDEAM is important to us because one of our goals is to normalize workplace inclusion,” Dern says. “We do that all year, but this month is devoted to educating employers on why they should include people with disabilities when hiring.”
PRIDE Industries will continue its constant efforts to promote the employment and inclusion of people with disabilities, proving every day that their model for business excellence has a place for everyone.
