Together, We’re Better.

October marks National Disability Employment Awareness Month and we’d like to take a moment to share the exciting ways in which we’re innovating and working together with partners, the community, people with disabilities and their families, to achieve the dreams of our founders who gathered together 55 years ago, determined to redefine what was possible in life for their kids and loved ones.

We recently joined forces with CBRE, the world’s largest commercial real estate services firm, to prove that greatness happens in workplaces when people of all abilities work together. Watch Stephen’s story below to see how he filled an important position at CBRE.

Aspire CareerLink, Aspire’s retail and warehouse distribution job training program, enabled 10 adults with disabilities to gain jobs in the community in the last year. We also partner with companies, like Office Depot and Essendant, to create welcoming, supportive workplaces. Watch the Davis family’s story below about their son Tom’s journey to get a job and gain independence. Bonus: Aspire CareerLink, funded by the Kessler Foundation, is a Finalist for the 2015 Chicago Innovation Awards!

Good things are brewing at Aspire CoffeeWorks, the dynamic social enterprise we launched in partnership with Metropolis Coffee Company, one of the nation’s top coffee roasters. We’re launching a new website and brand next month and ramping up office coffee sales. Aspire CoffeeWorks’ growth means more jobs for people with disabilities, who work side-by-side with Metropolis team members to fill orders and keep the company going. Also, 100% of proceeds benefit Aspire. Have another cup!

We look forward to forming strong relationships with individuals and companies who realize not only the importance of building an inclusive, welcoming community but also the importance of partnership.

• Refer a friend, neighbor or family member with a disability who wants a job in the community.
• Brew award-winning Aspire CoffeeWorks in your home or office.
• Connect us with a company that wants to partner together to create an inclusive workplace.

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