At United Way of Central Alabama (UWCA), we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to find meaningful employment opportunities, build independence and feel empowered through employment.
For individuals with disabilities, securing job opportunities can sometimes be challenging. But through UWCA’s network of partner agencies, people across Central Alabama are gaining practical skills, confidence and real-world experience every day.
In recognition of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we’re highlighting several partner agencies that are expanding access to inclusive employment through training, mentorship and on-the-job learning.
Easterseals of the Birmingham Area
Easterseals’ workforce development program gives adults with disabilities hands-on experience in entry-level roles throughout Birmingham. Participants strengthen critical thinking, communication, job readiness and time management skills while working with local employers. These partnerships help participants gain experience and build lasting connections with supportive mentors and employers. Some participants work at Birmingham-area companies like Edgar’s Bakery, Brookwood Baptist Hospital, Piggly Wiggly, Trussville Parks and Rec and more!
United Ability
United Ability’s Employment Services program provides job coaching and pre-hire training that help individuals with disabilities refine their skills and connect with local employers. UWCA supports this work, which exemplifies United Ability’s commitment to creating Possibility Beyond Disability™.
United Ability also operates Gone for Good, an on-site document and e-waste destruction company that employs program participants and reinvests profits into its mission of creating sustainable, mission-driven jobs.
“One of the ways United Way of Central Alabama supports United Ability is through our Employment Services team, which truly embodies Possibility Beyond Disability™. This team works tirelessly to connect talented individuals with disabilities to careers and vocations that highlight their unique strengths.”
Susan Sellers, CEO, United Ability
The Arc of Central Alabama, The Arc of Shelby County and The Arc of Walker County
The Arc’s Employment Support programs prepare individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to succeed in the workplace through pre-vocational training, small group work experiences and supported employment with partners like UAB, YMCA Shades Valley and the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel. UWCA’s partnership with The Arc of Central Alabama, The Arc of Shelby County and The Arc of Walker County expand access to job opportunities and family support across the region.
Workshops Empowerment, Inc. (WE, Inc.)
WE, Inc. creates inclusive employment opportunities through initiatives such as WE Made and Empower Café. These programs provide job readiness training, steady income and hands-on experience in food service and retail. At Empower Café in Avondale, participants learn valuable skills while contributing to a community space that brings people together.
At United Way of Central Alabama, we’re proud to partner with these organizations as they open doors to meaningful employment and independence. When everyone has the chance to work, learn and contribute, our entire community grows stronger.
This blog originally appeared in Bham Now’s “6 nonprofits that help people with disabilities find meaningful jobs.”