NextStep helps people with disabilities find meaningful work

Annette Kendrick, director of NextStep Employment Services in Arnold, is preparing her agency to celebrate the official theme for October’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month: “Profit by Investing in Workers with Disabilities.”

“The theme honors the contributions of workers with disabilities and serves to inform the public that they represent a highly skilled talent pool that can help employers compete in today’s global economy,” Kendrick said.

NextStep Employment Agency is an umbrella agency of the Jefferson County Developmental Disabilities Resource Board and provides employment counseling and placement services to those with developmental challenges.

Despite the turbulent economy, Kendrick said NextStep continues to successfully place clients in employment with local business.

“Our clients begin their next step with us by finding meaningful employment through the use of our staff and resources,” Kendrick said.

Arnold Mayor Ron Counts recognized NextStep’s contributions to the community with a proclamation declaring Friday, October 21, 2011 as "NextStep for Life Employment Services Disability Employment Awareness Day."

“We commend NextStep for continuing to successfully secure employment for clients,” Counts said in presenting the proclamation Friday at NextStep’s offices at 12 Municipal Drive in Arnold. “NextStep strives to develop ability by providing supports that enable people with disabilities to pursue a life of quality and dignity.”

Hiring the right talent is crucial to the success of any business’s return on investment, said Lisa Gibbar, assistant director of NextStep.

“Workers with disabilities represent all skill sets and are ready to get the job done,” Gibbar said. “This year’s theme focuses on improving employment opportunities that lead to good jobs and a secure economic future for people with disabilities and the nation as a whole.”