Archives for

It takes more than a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to keep someone like Sam Azevedo down. When Sam was referred to PRIDE Industries’ employment program for people with autism in Modesto, CA, it was clear that he was determined to get a job. He worked with his job coach and, instead of applying for one job every day as another motivated job seeker might do, Sam applied for five jobs a day and as many as 40 in a week.

Job Coaching Programs for People with Autism

Highly skilled, upbeat, and determined, Sam put every ounce of effort into getting a job. And the search yielded many interviews for Sam. However, like many people on the autism spectrum, he has a hard time with social cues and interactions. which made interviewing difficult. It took several months of diligent searching and interviewing—as well as training and coaching from PRIDE—before he landed a position as a courtesy clerk at Grocery Outlet.

During Sam’s journey to employment, PRIDE Industries’ employment program provided amazing help. 


The job has turned out to be worth the effort and wait. Grocery Outlet is a family-owned store that carries that sense of family to its employees and customers. After almost a year on the job, Sam still loves his work.

“It really means a lot to have a job because I am on a regular schedule and making money with consistent hours,” says Sam.

The store’s loyal following of regular customers all know Sam by name, and many make a point of saying “hello” when they come into the shop. Owners Roger and Heidi Custer also have high praise for Sam and his work ethic. “Sam is delightful and an important part of our family,” says Roger. “And he’s an asset to our staff.”

How we can help

Wherever you are in your career journey, PRIDE Industries’ employment program for people with autism can help you land that first job or move ahead in your industry.

PRIDE Industries (PRIDE), a premier provider of outsourcing solutions and creator of opportunities for people with disabilities, today announced the expansion of their operations facilities.

 

With continued growth and projected business opportunities, PRIDE Industries is adding a more than 175,000 square-foot warehousing facility, to be completed in two phases.

 

“We are pleased to announce the expansion,” said Tony Lopez, Vice President of Operations. “The expansion will enable PRIDE to better support our manufacturing, contract packaging, and fulfillment customers, and provide additional capacity for new opportunities.”

 

Presently, PRIDE is transitioning into 75,000 square feet of warehousing space and bringing 35-40 jobs to the Lincoln community. Phase two is expected to be completed within twelve months of occupancy. The second phase includes an additional 102,000 square feet of warehouse space and 150 full and part-time jobs.

 

“Lincoln is seeing growth in our community,” says Tom Cosgrove, CEO of the Lincoln Area Chamber of Commerce. “PRIDE’s expansion will bring jobs and fill warehouse space. Our community welcomes PRIDE, a provider of high-quality business that provides outstanding services to both its employees and customers.”

 

PRIDE offers a range of supply chain solutions, logistics management, and manufacturing services, to a diverse set of customers and markets. Operating in 14 states and the nation’s capital, PRIDE employs and serves more than 5,600 individuals.

 

“We are excited to be in Lincoln,” says Vic Wursten, Sr. VP of Rehabilitation Services. “PRIDE Industries is truly a Placer County success story. We look forward to partnering with Lincoln to create job opportunities, specifically for individuals with disabilities.”

Media Contact
Kat Maudru

PRIDE Industries is a social enterprise delivering business excellence to public and private organizations nationwide.