Challenge Unlimited Celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)

Did you know that 2020 marks not only the 75th observance of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), but also the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)? In October 2020, the DOL Office of Disability Employment Policy commemorated this milestone with a range of events and activities centered on the theme “Increasing Access and Opportunity.”

As a mission-driven organization, Challenge Unlimited (CU) believes that individuals with disabilities are an invaluable part of the workforce and community. Many businesses also recognize the benefits of employing individuals with disabilities and have tapped into the hardworking, dedicated workforce offered by CU.

CU is one of the first and only nonprofit agencies in the nation which matches the temporary staffing needs of businesses with a talented workforce comprised of individuals with all disabilities, the disadvantaged and veterans. The organization also provides on-site job coaches, assistance with on-boarding and other hiring-related functions. NDEAM, observed annually in October, is dedicated to increasing awareness of this talent pool.

“We cultivate a qualified workforce of highly capable individuals who are eager and ready to work,” says Charlotte Hammond, CEO and President of Challenge Unlimited. “Our overarching goal is to match pre-screened individuals with the staffing needs of area businesses.”

CU has helped fill positions in multiple industries, including IT, food service, custodial, groundskeeping, and much more. Hammond continues, “We are very proud that we have placed employees at highly respected businesses including Club Fitness, Loewe’s, Walgreen’s and World Wide Technology among others.”

According to Brian Nelson, human resource generalist at Walgreen’s warehouse facility, employees provide by CU are highly desirable. “We have secured employees through Challenge Unlimited for years, and these individuals have great attendance and are quick to learn any task assigned to them.”

Businesses who are interested in tapping into CU’s talented workforce are encouraged to contact Whitney Harvey for more information.