St. Louis Mayor Lyda Krewson recognizes Challenge Unlimited as the first Registered Apprenticeship for individuals with disabilities in the St. Louis Area

Challenge Unlimited, Inc. is proud to announce the launch of an innovative U.S. Department of Labor apprenticeship program for people living with disabilities. For more than 50 years, Challenge Unlimited has been committed to serving individuals with disabilities, while earning a reputation as a trusted business partner to private commercial companies and federal and state government agencies. 

Challenge Unlimited visited St. Louis City Hall on Friday, April 6 to receive recognition from Mayor Lyda Krewson for being the first registered U.S. Department of Labor apprenticeship program in the St. Louis region for people living with disabilities. During the meeting, Challenge Unlimited was presented with a plaque from the U.S. Department of Labor. 

Challenge Unlimited’s U.S. Department of Labor apprenticeship program gives individuals with disabilities the opportunity to receive hands-on professional development and training in the janitorial field. The registered apprenticeship will help Challenge Unlimited mission by providing opportunities for individuals with disabilities which will assist them to live, work and participate in the community.  

Today, Challenge Unlimited employs over 900 workers; of which approximately 600 are individuals with disabilities. President and CEO, Charlotte Hammond, anticipates that the apprenticeship program will impact hundreds more individuals with disabilities in the area.  

“This groundbreaking apprenticeship program will impact hundreds of individuals with disability in our region and across multiple states. We are so proud of our team for this amazing accomplishment,” said Hammond. “This apprenticeship program will provide education and training opportunities to create a more defined career path for individuals with disabilities. With support from agencies like U.S. Department of Labor and SLATE Missouri Job Center, we are working together to build a well-trained workforce that meets the needs of the janitorial industry.”