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What if you could help create a world where people with disabilities thrive in fulfilling careers? We're going to discuss just that. Join me as I sit down with Jeff Dern, President and CEO of PRIDE Industries to uncover the inspiring journey of the organization, a pioneering nonprofit with a mission to foster employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. From their modest beginnings at St. Luke's Church in Auburn, CA to becoming a formidable social enterprise under the leadership of Mike Ziegler, we discuss how PRIDE's core values of inclusivity, teamwork, innovation, and tenacity drive their impactful initiatives, including an exciting new cybersecurity training program.

In this episode, we highlight the profound community impact of PRIDE Industries, where approximately 50% of the workforce consists of individuals with disabilities. Hear touching stories that illustrate the joy and sense of fulfillment these employees bring to the workplace, like Lemuel’s daily jokes. We explore how PRIDE's services in facility management, logistics, and electronics manufacturing not only generate significant revenue but also support individuals with disabilities through comprehensive support services, such as transportation and life skills training.

We delve into the critical partnerships that enable PRIDE to offer essential services, emphasizing the vital role of government agencies in transitioning young people from school to meaningful employment. Jeff Dern shares insights on the success of PRIDE's "I Am Able Disability Job Fair" and the importance of inclusive hiring practices. As we look to the future, we envision a world of expanded resources, allowing for even greater training and employment opportunities, ultimately fostering stronger, more resilient communities. Join us for this compelling conversation on building a more inclusive, sustainable and engaging workforce.

To learn more about PRIDE Industries, visit.   https://www.prideindustries.com/
To comment or subscribe to The Non Profit Podcast updates, visit.  https://www.nonprofpod.com/  (Be sure to check out the microphone where you can leave me a voicemail message to comment on our work, leave a question to ask nonprofits or leave a message for me.)
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
(00:02 - 00:34 ) History and Success of PRIDE Nonprofit
(13:07 - 14:11 ) Empowering Lives Through Disability Inclusion
(18:21 - 20:30 ) Empowering Individuals Through Employment Opportunities
(25:24 - 26:53 ) Supporting Employment for Individuals With Disabilities
(32:36 - 33:09 ) Annual I Am Able Job Fair
(36:40 - 37:28 ) Supporting People With Disabilities Through Foundation
(41:45 - 42:39 ) Efficient Growth in Support Services
CHAPTER SUMMARIES
(00:00 ) PRIDE Industries
PRIDE Industries promotes inclusivity in the workforce, emphasizing teamwork, innovation, and tenacity through initiatives like cybersecurity training.

(11:14 ) Impactful Collaboration Among Disability Employers
PRIDE's workforce is 50% employees with disabilities, generating $460 mill

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