Empowering Individuals,
Enriching Our Community
Supporting the Tri-Cities through diverse programs, including employment support,
specialized job training, life skills development, and social enrichment.
Together, we can create a more inclusive community.
Columbia Ability Alliance, formerly Columbia Industries, has been a beacon of hope for over six decades, empowering individuals with unique abilities and other barriers to achieve personal success. Our story is one of evolution, perseverance, and a deep commitment to unlocking potential and transforming lives.
Thanks to our dedicated staff and support from our partners and donors, we continue to advocate for a more inclusive Tri-Cities, Washington.
Employment Services
We believe in finding meaningful employment for ALL abilities.
Community Center
We provide a welcoming, engaging center for individuals with unique abilities to discover social enrichment.
Opportunity Kitchen
We offer a 12-week vocational food service training program for individuals facing employment barriers.
Welcome to Columbia Ability Alliance!
Columbia Ability Alliance, formerly known as Columbia Industries, has deep roots in the Tri-Cities. Our journey began in 1963 as the United Cerebral Palsy Association of Benton and Franklin Counties. Our purpose was clear: to promote the general welfare of individuals with cerebral palsy and various handicaps.
Over six decades later, our commitment to this mission remains unwavering, though our vision has expanded extensively. We believe in breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for personal success for not only individuals with disabilities but also those who face unique barriers in life. We provide services to individuals experiencing housing instability, men and women reentering society after incarceration, veterans looking to reenter the workforce, those battling addiction, and women escaping domestic violence situations, plus many more. Our new brand reflects our dedication to empowering individuals to reach their fullest potential and enriching our community as a whole.
I'm in Need of Services
Whether it’s job training, community resources or recreational respite care, our services help empower you to achieve success. Click to learn more.
I'm an Employer Looking to Hire
Help create a more inclusive community by hiring someone with unique abilities. Learn more about tapping into this underutilized workforce.
Our Impact in 2023 - 2024
Make a Difference in Your Community
Your generosity can transform lives. By supporting Columbia Ability Alliance, you become a part of a community dedicated to empowering individuals and enriching our community.
Latest News & Stories
National Disability Employment Awareness Month – Access to Good Jobs for All
By Cheri Montee, Director of HR, Columbia Ability Alliance, and Michael Novakovich, President & CEO, Columbia Ability Alliance October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month
Building Connections at Engage & Grow 2024
Guests came together to enjoy a great night of networking and learning about Columbia Ability Alliance at our annual Engage & Grow event. Guests
Celebrating Our Impact: Columbia Ability Alliance’s 2023-2024 Achievements
We are excited to present Columbia Ability Alliance’s 2023/2024 Impact Report, showcasing the milestones and successes we’ve achieved over our past fiscal year (July 2023
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This past Saturday night, we had an incredible time at our Halloween Party, filled with costumes, treats, and festive fun for everyone! 🕸️🍬
A special shoutout to the Schulke Family from Walla Walla for generously donating all the pumpkins in honor of their son, Cooper. Your thoughtful gift made our event extra special, and we are so grateful! 🎃❤️
Check out some of the highlights from the night below—thanks to everyone who joined us for an unforgettable evening!
🍷 SAVE THE DATE! 🍷
Abilities Uncorked: A Strolling Dinner Benefiting Columbia Ability Alliance
🗓 Saturday, May 31, 2025
📍 J. Bookwalter Winery
Join us for a night to remember as we take you on a culinary journey through the scenic winery grounds, indulging in gourmet dishes perfectly paired with fine wines 🍷. Guests will be inspired by empowering stories and captivated by an exciting live auction, all while raising vital funds to foster greater independence and opportunity for individuals with unique abilities and life barriers.
Mark your calendars and get ready for an evening of elegance, impact, and connection.
Spotlight on Sarah: Our Benefits Planning Expert! 🌟 As part of #NationalDisabilityEmploymentAwarenessMonth, we’re thrilled to highlight Sarah, who plays a crucial role here at Columbia Ability Alliance.
While Sarah may not be out in the field every day, her work behind the scenes is key to our success. "I may not work directly with clients daily, but I’m proud to support the Employment Specialists who are on the front lines. When I do get to work with clients through Benefits Planning, it`s so rewarding to reassure them that working while on benefits is possible—and often even more financially viable. I love helping ease their concerns about Social Security and being a resource they can count on."
Sarah’s dedication ensures our clients feel secure in their journey toward independence, and we are so grateful for everything she brings to the team!
#NDEAM2024 #TeamSpotlight #InclusiveEmployment #BenefitsPlanning #ColumbiaAbilityAlliance
👻 Are you a past or current client? 🎃 Join us this Saturday, October 26th, from 5-8 PM for a spook-tacular Halloween party!
Just dress up in your favorite Halloween costume and bring $15 to make some awesome memories with us!
We can’t wait to celebrate with you! See you there! 🎉
🎃👻 It’s spooooooky season at the Community Center! Join us for some fun and friendship! Give us a call at 509.582.4142 to learn more about becoming part of our community! 🎃
