Roseville, Calif. — PRIDE Industries has added Spanish-speaking caseworkers to its I AM ABLE Helpline, a one-of-a-kind employment hotline for people with disabilities and other barriers to employment, including military veterans, former foster youth, and trafficking survivors. Launched in 2021, the free, California-based service connects people in the state to support resources, job training, and employment opportunities. People can contact the bilingual helpline by calling (844) I-AM-ABLE or (844) 426-2253 or by visiting iamablehelpline.com.
“The helpline is a one-stop shop for people in California to get connected to the support and opportunities they need,” said Jeff Dern, President and CEO of PRIDE Industries. “And now, the Spanish-speaking community in our state can more easily access these programs and services as well.”
Spanish is spoken by one-third of California residents, and for some, Spanish is their primary language. By adding a Spanish option to its employment helpline, the nonprofit social enterprise seeks to make its helpline accessible to thousands more people every year.
PRIDE Industries launched the I AM ABLE Helpline as part of its mission to create employment for people with disabilities. The helpline was an immediate success, with people calling in even before the service was officially announced. An internal analysis by the company revealed that more than 85% of helpline callers are unaware of the services available for people with disabilities and others who face barriers to employment.
“A big part of what we do is educational,” said Casandra Hatfield, I AM ABLE Helpline Manager. “We let people know which programs they qualify for, and how they can access them. Many callers go on to receive services through our own programs. At PRIDE Industries, we provide the vocational training people need, and we can even help them find a job, either with us or with one of our many employment partners. And it all starts with that call to the helpline.”
The I-AM-ABLE Helpline is one of multiple services offered by PRIDE Industries, which has been helping people with disabilities reach their employment goals since 1966. As part of its mission, the company operates several lines of business, including manufacturing and logistics, supply chain services, facilities management, and staffing and recruitment. Its customers include both government entities and private businesses.
“All of our Helpline services are built on over 55 years of commitment to making employment more accessible to everyone,” said Dern. “We encourage people with disabilities to call and begin their journey to great job opportunities and realizing their true potential.”
About PRIDE Industries
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PRIDE Industries is a social enterprise delivering business excellence to public and private organizations nationwide.
