For Immediate Release: 10/19/2009

Alternatives, Inc. Marks National Disability Employment Awareness Month with Increased Job Placements

RARITAN, N.J. (October 19, 2009) – It’s a little over two weeks into the month of October and seven people who have received job development and placement services from Bridges to Employment, a division of Alternatives, Inc. have gotten jobs. This, just as the U.S. Department of Labor steps up efforts to increase opportunities for workers with disabilities.

“It’s so encouraging to see initiatives on a Federal level,” said Nancy Good, President of Alternatives, Inc. President Obama is quoted as saying, “Across this country, millions of people with disabilities are working or want to work, and they should have access to the support and services they need to succeed.”

This is precisely the approach that those in supported employment have promoted. “Our goal is to provide people with the resources and tools necessary to find and maintain successful employment,” said Glori Bine-Callagy, Director of Bridges to Employment. “We have helped hundreds of people with special needs lead more fulfilling lives through workplace independence. At the same time, we are committed to helping companies large and small satisfy their business needs.”

Bridges to Employment Career Facilitators assist clients in finding competitive jobs that match their skills with an employers needs. They help by providing training and bridging any gaps to successful employment. For some clients that could mean a retail position at TJ Maxx, food prep at Shop Rite or a case worker for a social service agency. This month, among the seven placements already, the client’s skill matched positions at Somerset Medical Center, Overlook Hospital and UPS. “Sometimes all it takes is the right opportunity,” said Callagy. Bridges to Employment works with a broad range of local employers to find the right job for each person.

Bridges to Employment helps people with a variety of special needs including those with cognitive, emotional or physical disabilities; and recently launched their Career Development Center designed to improve the quality of life and employment opportunities for many of New Jersey’s residents with varying degrees of hearing loss.

For more information about Bridges to Employment contact Glori Bine-Callagy at 908- 685-1444 ext. 225/VP: (908) 458-9204 or visit www.bridgestoemployment.com. Based in Raritan, Alternatives provides residential, employment, and support services for individuals with developmental disabilities, mental illness and other special needs. For information on Alternatives, please call 908-685-1444 or visit www.alternativesinc.org.
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