Challenge Unlimited has been a leader in prioritizing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in the workforce for over 60 years. As an AbilityOne provider we are committed to providing quality services in a safe environment for individuals of all abilities.
Watch the video to see what Tim, Bobby & Tyler have to say about working at Challenge Unlimited.
Looking to expand your workforce and prioritize DEI?
Contact us today to join the EmployAbility Initiative.
AbilityOne Film COMING November 8th!!
Tim is one of a few employees that were recently interviewed for our short film highlighting the success of our Challenge Unlimited teams.
⭐Our “EmployAbility” Video Premieres November 8th⭐ 📽
♪ “I’m goin’ to Jackson, but I’m not gonna mess around.” ♪
Johnny Cash’s iconic words resonate with a different journey today – the journey towards creating a brighter future for disability employment. In Mississippi, 256,889 individuals ages 18 to 64 identify as having a disability, and 64% of those individuals are unemployed. (Mississippi By The Numbers)
Advocating for Change from Jackson to D.C.
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and GSA Jackson team member Jeffie Walker is not a statistic. He exemplifies the transformative power of inclusion and the strides made in the workforce, but we have a long way to go. He can assure you that individuals with disabilities are not “messing around” but are seizing their rightful place in the world of employment, and his journey is a testament to his determination and resilience in the face of adversity.
Jeffie’s Story
Mr. Jeffie Walker is a self-proclaimed “huge sports fan” and aspires to own his own home so that he can have the “man cave” of his dreams. His story is just one example of how individuals with disabilities can overcome challenges to achieve outstanding success, but the path was not without its obstacles.
After earning a Mass Communications degree from Jackson State University, Jeffie encountered difficulties securing employment due to his disability. However, he refused to be disheartened and, with the unwavering support of his family, friends, and counselors, embarked on a new journey within the AbilityOne Program.
He began as a janitor in the McCoy Federal building in downtown Jackson, Mississippi. Over eight years in this role, Mr. Walker displayed unparalleled dedication and work ethic, becoming an integral part of his workplace. However, uncertainty loomed when the company he worked for lost the contract.
A Chance to Shine
During this critical period, Challenge Unlimited recognized Mr. Walker’s exceptional qualities and not only retained him on the team but was promoted to the building’s sole Floor Care Technician. This marked a significant milestone, his first-ever promotion, and an accompanying raise.
Among his numerous accomplishments within the AbilityOne Program, Mr. Walker is incredibly proud of his promotion. This achievement highlights his dedication and showcases his potential for growth. Jeffie’s success led him to be selected to represent his company and coworkers in Washington, D.C., at the SourceAmerica Grassroots Advocacy Conference, showcasing his ability to advocate for the program’s mission and the contributions of individuals like him. He’s funny, charismatic, and a delight to be around.
Winning
He was nominated by his supervisors for the SourceAmerica William M. Usdane Award, which serves as a powerful reminder that individuals with disabilities are invaluable assets to the workforce and can thrive when given the opportunity. This nomination is more than just a recognition of his achievements; it’s a beacon of hope for others facing similar challenges.
While the award’s winner has yet to be selected, Jeffie is already a winner in our book. He is committed to his job, and his dedication to advocating for himself and others is exemplary. “To be honest, I think people with disabilities can do just as well or even better jobs if given support and guidance,” said Walker. He exemplifies the transformative power of determination, hard work, and the impact of a supportive work environment. We firmly believe that Mr. Walker deserves to be celebrated for his achievements. Jeffie can inspire countless others to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams. He is proof that you can achieve anything you put your mind to.
In a world that thrives on diversity and inclusivity, creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities is not just a moral imperative, but also a strategic advantage for any society. The AbilityOne Program stands as a shining example of how public-private partnerships can drive empowerment, independence, and inclusion for people with disabilities while delivering high-quality products and services to the federal government.
Understanding the AbilityOne Program:
The AbilityOne Program, administered by the U.S. AbilityOne Commission, is a federal initiative that creates job opportunities for individuals with significant disabilities through contracts with nonprofit organizations. These organizations employ individuals with disabilities to produce goods and services for the federal government, fostering an environment of self-sufficiency and personal growth.
Key Objectives and Benefits
Employment Opportunities: The program provides meaningful employment to people with disabilities, enabling them to contribute to society while achieving financial independence.
Inclusion and Diversity: AbilityOne promotes an inclusive workplace, demonstrating that diversity is not a limitation but a strength that can drive innovation and creativity.
High-Quality Products and Services: The goods and services delivered through the AbilityOne Program meet stringent federal standards, underscoring the capabilities of a diverse workforce.
Positive Economic Impact: By generating jobs and contributing to the economy, the program reduces the reliance on government assistance programs.
Community Building: The program nurtures a sense of community among participants, fostering personal relationships and support networks that extend beyond the workplace.
The Numbers
Approximately 450 non profit agencies across the country participate as partners to the AbilityOne Program employing over 40,000 individuals with significant disabilities. In Illinois alone there are 701,035 individuals who identify as having a significant disability. The state has 15 providers that employ over 500 individuals including 27 Veterans through the program.
While this is a start we still have a long way to go towards providing equitable opportunities for these individuals. According to a recent study published by SourceAmerica the Unemployment rate in the state is still 54.4% for disabled workers, compared to a much lower overall unemployment rate of 4%. (US Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Challenge Unlimited (CU) employs approximately 342 individuals across our AbilityOne Contract Sites. CU AbilityOne employee, Matt Driver, began working at the Paul Findlay Federal Courthouse through the AbilityOne Program and recently celebrated his 10 year work anniversary. He has also been acknowledged for perfect attendance and has since moved into his own apartment. Check out what Matt had to say about his experiences in the caption below!
Matthew is pictured in a blue Challenge Unlimited t-shirt holding the gift card that he was presented with for perfect attendance this year.
“Challenges” and Future Directions
While the AbilityOne Program has achieved commendable success, there are challenges to address:
Awareness and Advocacy: Raising awareness about the program is crucial to attracting more customers and expanding the scope of employment opportunities.
Skill Development: Investing in ongoing training and skill development ensures that participants can excel in their roles and adapt to changing demands.
Technology Integration: Embracing technological advancements can open up new avenues for individuals with disabilities to contribute meaningfully.
In conclusion, the AbilityOne Program stands as a beacon of hope and progress in the realm of disability employment and inclusion. By empowering individuals with disabilities to unleash their potential, the program doesn’t just create jobs—it creates a sense of purpose, belonging, and a brighter future for everyone involved. As employers look to fill the gap in today’s labor force they need to consider people with disabilities, who are a valuable largely untapped labor pool. Not only does employing people with disabilities fill an urgent need for businesses, but it can also have a holistic positive economic impact that can benefit the larger community.
Los Angeles, CA 2009 – Source America Advocacy Conference – Back row from left tom right: Mike Robinson, VP of IT & EVS, Deb Snyder, VP of Operations, Don Schwaab, Board Member; Front row from left to Right: Scott Gibbs, CU Project Manager and Evelyne Villines Award Winner, Source America Representative, and Debbi McMahon
It was 1978. The movie “Grease,” starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John, was released, and the disco era was at it’s peak with the release of Saturday Night Fever. Most importantly, significant amendments to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 were expanded, prohibiting discrimination against individuals with disabilities in programs. This set the stage for what would create a strong disability civil rights movement, and after graduating from Greenville University with a B.A. in Psychology, a young woman with a passion for helping individuals with disabilities began her career at Challenge Unlimited.
Debbi McMahon didn’t know when she made her first major career move out of college that it would be the only one she would ever make, but it was, and we are so glad she chose Challenge Unlimited. Debbi excelled with our organization and rose to a leadership role, serving as the Executive Vice President of Programs since 2014.
She has committed her life to the mission of providing opportunities and independence for individuals with disabilities and helped countless others realize their passion for the work as well. She has been a shining light for our staff and clients and a constant reminder of why we all do what we do at Challenge Unlimited.
Debbi and Challenge Unlimited Board Chair Tom Morrissey and Board Member Jim Kasten
On June 21st, we celebrated Debbi with a luncheon at our Administration building. Debbi’s husband, daughter and grandchildren, staff and Board Members were in attendance.
Co-workers told stories about Debbi’s work and how far Challenge Unlimited has come under her
leadership. Thank you Debbi for your service and hope you enjoy your well deserved time with you family. We hope you will come back to visit soon!
Debbi McMahon & Family hold up a sign Congratulating Debbi on her retirement. made by Debbi’s Grandchildren
Celebrating Disability Pride Month: Embracing Diversity and Empowerment
The image depicts an individual in a wheelchair with 3 others around him. He is giving a “high five” to the person to the left.
The History of Disability Pride Month
The origins of Disability Pride Month can be traced back to the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990. This landmark legislation was a turning point in the fight for civil rights for individuals with disabilities in the United States. The ADA ensured equal opportunities in employment, public services, transportation, and other aspects of daily life, breaking down barriers that had previously excluded people with disabilities. Observed annually in July, it is a powerful celebration that honors and empowers people with disabilities. It is a time to reflect on the historical struggle for disability rights, recognize the achievements of disability activists, and promote a world that values inclusivity and accessibility. In this blog post, we will explore the history, significance, and the symbol of unity – the Disability Pride Flag.
The first Disability Pride march was held in Boston in 1990, just a few months after the ADA was passed. The march was organized by Judith Heumann, a disability rights activist who is known as the “Mother of the ADA.” The march was a way to celebrate the passage of the ADA and to raise awareness of the ongoing fight for disability rights.
Meaning of the Celebration
Disability Pride Month is a time to celebrate the diversity of the disability community and to promote the message of inclusion and acceptance. It is also a time to remember the struggles that people with disabilities have faced throughout history and to continue to fight for equality.
This month serves as an opportunity to:
Raise Awareness: Disability Pride Month provides a platform to educate the public about disability rights, challenges, and achievements. By increasing awareness, we can combat misconceptions and promote empathy and understanding.
Celebrate Diversity: Just as every individual is unique, so are their experiences with disability. Disability Pride Month encourages people to celebrate the diversity within the disability community and recognize the vast array of talents, skills, and perspectives that individuals with disabilities bring to society.
Advocate for Change: Disability Pride Month is a call to action. It reminds us that there is still work to be done to create a more accessible and inclusive world. It encourages governments, organizations, and communities to implement policies and practices that promote equality and accessibility.
The Flag & Its Symbolism
The Disability Pride Flag was created in 2019 by Ann Magill, a writer and disability rights activist. The flag features five diagonal stripes of different colors on a black background. The colors and the black background have the following meanings:
Red: Physical disabilities
Gold: Neurodiversity
White: Invisible and undiagnosed disabilities
Blue: Emotional and psychiatric disabilities
Green: Sensory disabilities
Black: Anger and mourning over the eugenics and the neglect that disabled people have to fight against.
The diagonal stripes represent cutting across barriers that separate people with disabilities from society. The black background represents the anger and mourning over eugenics and the neglect that disabled people have to fight against. The colors of the flag were chosen to be as inclusive as possible, representing a wide range of disabilities.
The Disability Pride Flag is a symbol of hope, empowerment, and pride for people with disabilities. It is a reminder that people with disabilities are not to be pitied or feared, but rather celebrated for their unique contributions to society.
Here are some additional details about the meaning of the colors on the Disability Pride Flag:
Red: The color red is often associated with physical disabilities, such as mobility impairments, visual impairments, and hearing impairments.
Gold: The color gold is often associated with neurodiversity, which refers to the range of cognitive functions and behaviors that fall outside the typical range. People with neurodiversity may have conditions such as autism, ADHD, or dyslexia.
White: The color white is often associated with invisible and undiagnosed disabilities, such as chronic pain, fatigue, and mental health conditions.
Blue: The color blue is often associated with emotional and psychiatric disabilities, such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.
Green: The color green is often associated with sensory disabilities, such as deafness, blindness, and lack of smell.
How to Celebrate Disability Pride Month
There are many ways to celebrate Disability Pride Month. Here are a few ideas:
Attend a Disability Pride event in your community. Here’s a link to one being hosted by the Missouri Historical Society in St. Louis.
Learn about the history of the disability rights movement.
Talk to someone you know who has a disability about their experiences.
Challenge stereotypes about people with disabilities.
Advocate for disability rights in your workplace or school.
Disability Pride Month is a time to celebrate the diversity of the disability community and to promote the message of inclusion and acceptance. It is also a time to remember the struggles that people with disabilities have faced throughout history and to continue to fight for equality.
Our Marketing Manager was recently invited to The Big Z for an interview, she was joined by CU Vice President of Programs, John Becker. They discussed #DisabilityPrideMonth, what it means at Challenge Unlimited, how we can support individuals with disabilities and raise awareness of the celebration in our community. Listen Below.
Some things have changed at Challenge Unlimited over the years but our mission remains the same “to provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities to live, work, and participate in the community.”
Evelyne Jobe Villines was a charismatic speaker with a sense of humor that lit up a room, but her story doesn’t start there. She contracted polio at the age of 3 and like many children with disabilities she suffered from lack of understanding, opportunity and one teacher even sent her home with a note that said “I don’t have time to teach a handicapped child.” Luckily for Evelyne her father was the Mayor and her uncle – the President of the school board. They were able to ensure that she stay in school and be provided with an education. (Arends, Statesman Journal, 1980) Villines turned her turmoil into triumph and went on to be a leader and advocate in the disability community, serving on numerous boards and advisory commissions in various positions. “My own definition of rehabilitation is to ‘restore with dignity,’ and there is dignity in work, in gainful employment, in feeling needed,” Villines once said. She is often credited with helping to set the stage for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). (AbilityOne, Lesko, 2017)
Scott Gibbs’s story is also one of triumph over tragedy. Scott was in a barge accident leaving him unable to work. He had lost a lot and had been cleaning gas stations when he came to Challenge looking for a fresh start. He quickly displayed his capabilities, work ethic and ability to lead with compassion. He was promoted to crew lead, then to a supervisor role on the Scott Air Force AbilityOne Contract and eventually earned a Project Manager position on our GSA Contract.
Scott Gibbs is proof that “people with disability can and do make a difference in the workforce.” He was presented with the Evelyne Villines Award from SourceAmerica in 2009 and was invited to attend the self advocacy conference in Anaheim, CA. Scott spoke in front of leaders to advocate for opportunities for individuals with disability. Awardees were taken to Disneyland and he even got to see the ocean for the first time. He was escorted by several members of our leadership team and Deb Snyder, our Vice President of Operations even joined Scott on a tour of The Queen Mary.
Hear more about Scott and his success story in the video below.
In a world that thrives on diversity and inclusivity, creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities is not just a moral imperative, but also a strategic advantage for any society. The AbilityOne Program stands as a shining example of how public-private partnerships can drive empowerment, independence, and inclusion for people with disabilities while delivering high-quality products and services to the federal government.
