People with Disabilities

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Most people remember that first job right out of high school. Developing a professional resume, navigating through interview questions, and proving yourself despite a lack of experience, all made reaching that milestone even more special. However, for youth with disabilities, these obstacles are compounded, making that first paycheck even more elusive. This problem hinders further markers of independence, like moving into a new apartment, affording higher education, or purchasing a car. PRIDE Industries offers employment services to help people with disabilities prepare for and secure their first job out of high school and begin the path to their chosen career.

Partnering with PRIDE Employment Services to Overcome Obstacles

Alexzander turned to PRIDE Industries’ employment services after he graduated high school in 2018. He had minimal experience working in his high school and at a camp for youth in foster care. He was eager for his first permanent job, but after months of searching, he hadn’t found one.

“Whenever I saw a help wanted sign, I would go into the store to fill out an application and introduce myself. While speaking to the manager, I would become incredibly nervous, start stuttering, and completely forget what I wanted to say. Months went by, and I couldn’t find anything. I just wanted a job where I could grow.”

PRIDE Industries’ employment services helped bridge this gap. Alexzander met Carlos Perez, a job developer, via referral, and together they developed a resume and cover letter and practiced interviewing. PRIDE also provided Alexzander with professional work clothes, a planner, and other items to help him succeed.

“I have a learning disability, and Carlos worked with me to develop ways to overcome my anxiety and remember the correct steps while applying and interviewing for a job,” said Alexzander. “The consistent practice made me more confident since I knew that I had support, and Carlos would accompany me to meet with potential employers.”

Employment Services: Laying A Foundation for the Future

All their hard work paid off when Carlos helped connect Alexzander to a paid internship, funded by donations to PRIDE, at a local Rite-Aid store. Eager to start working, Alexzander continually showed up with a positive attitude, impressing his colleagues. “It meant so much when my manager told me that my entire team wanted to invite me to join them as a store associate!”

“I am currently thriving in my job and am starting to learn how to become a cashier and change prices. The best part of each day is making someone’s day a little better.”

Thanks to PRIDE’s donors, Alexzander is now able to build a foundation for his future career. “While learning new skills at my job, I have been saving up money for college; I plan to study computer coding to become a video game or animation designer.

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“I am currently thriving in my job and am starting to learn how to become a cashier and change prices. The best part of each day is making someone’s day a little better.”

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Like many young adults with disabilities, John* (name changed) struggled to find a job. After several months, John’s father was concerned that his son would never reach this important milestone of independence. Moreover, he feared that John was quickly running out of time.

With this in mind, they reached out to PRIDE Industries’ Youth Services program. This program provides job coaching assistance and connects qualified candidates with local employment and internship opportunities.

Internship Opportunities and Job Programs for Adults with Disabilities

Then, things changed for the better when John met Carlos Perez, a PRIDE Industries Job Developer. Carlos worked one-on-one with John, teaching him fundamental skills for job success. As John worked with Carlos, his confidence grew, and he began making significant progress towards his goals.

However, the real challenge began when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, bringing hiring to a standstill. Despite this setback, Carlos was able to arrange a paid internship opportunity for John at Walgreens. Generous donors to The Michael Ziegler PRIDE Industries Foundation made this opportunity possible. With on-the-job coaching from PRIDE Industries, John is making progress in his new role. Significantly, he has impressed his manager, who is considering hiring him after the internship ends.

Partner with Youth Services

John got his foot in the door and is on track to accomplishing what he never thought was possible. If you’re a young adult with a disability or other barrier to employment and are struggling to find a job, PRIDE Industries can help you, too. Partner with Youth Services to learn new skills, find internship and job opportunities, access assistive technology on the job, receive ongoing support, and so much more.

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Lindsay McKean is one of the many people who has benefited from donations to the Michael Ziegler PRIDE Industries foundation, which made it possible for her to participate in PRIDE’s job training programs for adults. Because of this, she was able to start a fulfilling new career.

Job Training Programs for Adults with Disabilities

Lindsay began her career in the hospitality industry working at the front desk of a Holiday Inn. She absolutely loved the work, but due to a disability, it was increasingly difficult for her to stay on her feet all day.

“I needed a different type of job,” she said. “I decided I wanted to work in an office—I’d be able to work with other people, and I wouldn’t have to stand all day. But there was a problem: I’d never been good with computers.”

Fortunately, Lindsay’s advisor at the Department of Rehabilitation put her in touch with PRIDE Industries so she could participate in our job training program for adults with disabilities.

“My Job Developer, Caryl Balko, supported my goals completely,” said Lindsay “Not only did she get me into a computer skills class, but she also told me that she knew I could do it.”

Beyond Job Training to Internship Success

It made all the difference for Lindsay to have someone rooting for her. With training, she became an expert in the Office 365 programs. Not long after, Caryl recommended her for an internship program at PRIDE’s corporate office, working at The Michael Ziegler PRIDE Industries Foundation.

“When I learned that the internship involved working on the donation campaign that had helped fund my training, I knew then that I really wanted the job,” Lindsay shared. “I was thrilled when I got the call telling me I’d landed the internship.”

“I’ve been working at PRIDE for about six weeks now, and with all the practice I’ve had, my computer skills are top-notch. It turns out that I was never bad at using computers—I just needed training and practice. My Job Developer Caryl saw that, and so does my supervisor Michele Bennyhoff.”

Move forward in your career

PRIDE Industries provides internships, job coaching and training programs, work transportation, assistive technology, and so much more for people with disabilities. Find out how we can help you pursue your career goals.

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“My Job Developer, Caryl Balko, supported my goals completely. Not only did she get me into a computer skills class, but she also told me that she knew I could do it.”

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One of the hardest jobs is looking for a new one. Filling out applications, checking out new positions, and networking take a significant amount of time and effort. This process can be especially challenging for individuals with disabilities. PRIDE Industries offers employment services to help applicants with every step of the job search process, providing support, resources, and training for first-time job seekers and experienced workers alike.

Help with the Toughest Parts of Job Searching

Despite being an experienced janitorial professional, David Driggs had trouble finding a new position while between jobs. A local nonprofit referred him to PRIDE Industries’ Sacramento, CA Employment Services, for support.

PRIDE Industries’ Employment Services in the Sacramento Region partners with community businesses to find jobs for individuals with disabilities. During the intake process, Job Developers learn about the participant’s interests, capabilities, and challenges, and work to build their confidence. PRIDE Job Developer Caryl Balko paired with David, and they practiced interviewing and fine-tuned his resume as his job search continued.

“The hardest part of the job search was keeping up my perseverance,” said David. “I’m a positive person, but it was often hard keeping my hopes up in such a competitive job market. I have hearing loss and a learning disability; sometimes, I learn at a slightly slower speed, but this has never interfered with my ability to work.”

Job Club: For Support and Learning During the Search

A part of the program is Job Club, where participants meet weekly to learn how to make a great first impression, practice interviewing, and explore career fields. “I met a lot of friends in Job Club,” said David. “It was always interesting to learn about everyone’s career interests and to practice interview skills in a relaxing environment. It was sometimes festive, we had a Christmas party and potluck! Most importantly, we learned what it takes to get a job.”

All of David’s hard work and persistence paid off after six months when he was hired as a Janitor at Cintas Uniform Supply in February 2019, a uniform rental and delivery company in Sacramento, CA. Cintas is a partner of PRIDE’s Employment Services Program and has hired several individuals with disabilities.

“It felt so good when I got the news that I was hired; I’ve since become a morning person!” David now starts his day bright and early at 4:30 AM, cleaning the restrooms, emptying trash, cleaning the cafeteria and cleaning counters and microwaves.

Reaching Milestones with Support from PRIDE’s Employment Services

With the help of a PRIDE Job Coach and additional training by Cintas, David has excelled in his position. “I believe that happiness spreads easily, and I love going to work,” said David. “Every day, I’m always there with a smile. Around Cintas, I’m known for my change collection, especially lucky pennies.”

“David comes to work happy every day,” said Cintas HR Manager Jessica Armijo. “His energy gets the rest of the team motivated as well.” Due to his excellent work record, David received the Golden Broom Award, which involved recognition from management, along with a reward and polo shirt.

After receiving a performance raise in June, David was able to reach a significant milestone by moving into his own apartment. “With the paycheck from my job, I finally got to move out of my mom’s place and have earned more independence. I now look forward to continuing my career at Cintas, I feel like a valued member of their team.”

Find out how PRIDE Industries Employment Services can provide you with job search help and support, or apply for a job with PRIDE Industries today.

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“With the paycheck from my job, I finally got to move out of my mom’s place and have earned more independence. I now look forward to continuing my career at Cintas, I feel like a valued member of their team.”

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Roughly half a million Americans use American Sign Language, or ASL. However, applicants who are deaf often face barriers to employment due to a lack of understanding of ASL translation resources. Despite their qualifications, these individuals struggle to secure positions in their chosen industry.

PRIDE Industries provides employment services for people who are deaf or hard of hearing to help bridge the communication gap between employers and applicants. Employment services include assistive technology, on-site video translation, ASL interpreters, and ASL-trained job coaches.

Meet Sezne Hernandez, Deaf Interpreter

Generous donors make it possible for PRIDE Industries to offer the PRIDE Ascend program, a training initiative that empowers people with disabilities to gain technical skills and attain industry-based certifications in El Paso, TX, and Sacramento, CA.

Participants receive an assessment and meet with PRIDE’s dedicated staff to explore career interests and job placement. Accommodations and instruction are tailored to each individual while they receive the training needed for the workplace to ensure success.

Job Developer Sezne Hernandez has been with PRIDE Ascend since 2016. She has worked with several businesses in the El Paso region to place people with disabilities.

“I started learning American Sign Language in 2014, after finishing my general education courses at El Paso Community College (EPCC). I was enrolled in classes at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) to study speech therapy. My college advisor suggested I return to EPCC to complete a few ASL classes to accommodate any potential clients who are deaf or hard of hearing.

I signed up for one class and became hooked. Observing my professor who is deaf working together with his interpreter interested me so much that I decided to continue studying ASL. I earned an Associates of Applied Science in Sign Language / Interpreter Preparation with a Certificate of Completion in American Sign Language-Deaf Studies.

I completed state-required courses through the University of North Texas’ Workplace Inclusion & Sustainable Employment (UNTWISE). I am Texas-certified as a Job Coach and Job Developer and provide sign language interpretation. In July 2016, I was hired as a Job Coach/ASL Interpreter at PRIDE Ascend in El Paso, TX, and promoted to Job Developer in 2018. I am expanding my skillset with Vocational Adjustment Training (VAT) to support clients in other programs that PRIDE Ascend provides.”E

Full Range of Employment Services for the Deaf

Sezne works with 15 to 20 individuals at a time to prepare and place them in employment. Like many of PRIDE Ascend’s members, her services include:

conducting employment training
tailoring resumes
practicing interviewing
supporting pre-employment training for individuals referred to PRIDE
assisting clients with job applications and with navigating through the interview process.

While meeting with different employers to establish partnerships, Sezne passionately explains how PRIDE partners with businesses to meet their needs by providing qualified candidates. She also shares PRIDE’s range of services, such as on the job support and trial internship opportunities (funded by PRIDE’s generous donors).

“Some employers are intrigued by our unique services and mission; however, some are skeptical,” she says. “Often, I serve as an educator to help change the common stereotype that an individual’s disability will affect their performance.”

Once clients are hired, Sezne facilitates job coaching to provide support and guidance during the initial job transition and to check on their progress throughout their employment. She also ensures that both the employer and employee continually overcome obstacles to communication, such as properly using video relay services.

“My most memorable moment was job coaching a client on a construction site last year. Initially, the owner was skeptical if the client could do their required job or drive a vehicle. However, after hiring the client, the ‘bridge’ to success was created. The client began conversing with his team, introduced Deaf culture to them, and we worked together to teach his colleague’s sign language and gestures. His team opened up, and the client began to thrive. He became a manager only after three months!

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Contact our I AM ABLE Helpline to discuss your options.

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“It’s always the best feeling when my clients get a job, especially if they have been searching for a long time. It encourages me to be a part of someone’s life success.”

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In recent years, technology improvements have made translation easier between those who use ASL and those who speak. However, more than 50% of Deaf Americans do not work due to obstacles to obtaining employment, despite their qualifications. PRIDE Industries offers job training and placement services to help applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing to overcome employment barriers and progress in their careers.

Monica Salazar was one such individual. “I was working at a job manufacturing garments, but was laid off when business slowed down. Looking for a new job is a struggle since I am Deaf and communicate via American Sign Language (ASL). Communication was a barrier – even in getting an interview, I was out of work for half a year and began struggling financially.”

To overcome these challenges, Monica sought help from the Texas Workforce Commission’s Vocational Rehabilitation Services; her counselor suggested that she enroll at PRIDE Ascend in El Paso, TX.

Job Training and Placement for People with Disabilities

PRIDE Ascend was created to meet the growing demand for skilled labor and help people with disabilities overcome employment barriers. The program helps people with disabilities gain technical skills and earn industry-based certifications in El Paso, TX, and Sacramento, CA.

Participants receive an assessment and meet with PRIDE’s dedicated staff to explore career interests and job placement and training opportunities. Each individual receives accommodations, training, and instruction tailored to their needs to ensure workplace success.

Monica graduated the program with an NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research) certificate in Construction Technology. She also earned an OSHA 10 Safety Card. Once she obtained the certificate, Ascend’s Employment Services staff placed Monica into a paid internship at the Hampton Inn, which was made possible by generous donors to PRIDE Industries Development and Donor Services.

“After making the connection and sharing information about PRIDE’s job training and placement services, Hampton Inn’s General Manager Gabe Ayoub was very enthusiastic about having Monica as an intern,” said Sezne Hernandez, Employment Placement Specialist.

Ongoing Training and Support after Placement

During her internship, Monica vacuumed the halls, cleaned restrooms, maintained the swimming pool area and gym, did laundry, and more. She excelled in this welcoming environment, and after her 90-day internship, Monica was hired on the spot as a Houseman. In addition to her internship tasks, she uses her construction skills performing maintenance in guest rooms, painting, and caulking.

Along the way, PRIDE Ascend’s job training and placement services were available to Monica. She received resources and encouragement as she transitioned into her full-time position from her internship.

“PRIDE Ascend’s support helped me be successful in my classes, allowing me to obtain a certificate and to gain the skills that I use today in my job,” said Monica. “Through the internship, I was able to learn a lot, and my job coach helped me transition into my new position, which eventually led me to getting hired permanently!

From the support of PRIDE Ascend and my co-workers, I have found success. Through overcoming the challenges of entering a new career field, I have become more motivated and will continue working hard to achieve my goals, including obtaining my driver’s license and buying a vehicle, as I currently take public transportation. I am working to become a supervisor in my department and saving to buy a house.”

Need employment placement support?

Contact our I AM ABLE Helpline to discuss your options.

Learn More

“To facilitate communication, he posted a chart with signs for the ASL alphabet, and immediately had all the staff learn how to sign Monica’s name in ASL, as well as 'good morning' and 'good evening' so she would feel welcomed and as a part of the team.”

People with Disabilities

Partnering with PRIDE Employment Services to Overcome Obstacles

Employment Services: Laying A Foundation for the Future

Need employment placement support?

Internship Opportunities and Job Programs for Adults with Disabilities

Partner with Youth Services

Job Training Programs for Adults with Disabilities

Beyond Job Training to Internship Success

Move forward in your career

Help with the Toughest Parts of Job Searching

Job Club: For Support and Learning During the Search

Reaching Milestones with Support from PRIDE’s Employment Services​

Are you a veteran?

Meet Sezne Hernandez, Deaf Interpreter

Full Range of Employment Services for the Deaf

Need employment placement support?

Job Training and Placement for People with Disabilities

Ongoing Training and Support after Placement

Need employment placement support?

Reaching Milestones with Support from PRIDE’s Employment Services