How Employers Can Support and Empower Individuals with Disabilities
In today’s diverse workforce, understanding and supporting adults with disabilities is not just a matter of inclusion, it’s a responsibility. Employers have the power to build workplaces where individuals with disabilities are not only welcomed but empowered to thrive. But how do we start? It begins with understanding what disability really means, and what it […]
How Supported Employment Empowers People with Disabilities to Thrive in the Workplace
Across the country, people with disabilities continue to face disproportionate barriers to meaningful employment. Did you know that in 2024, only 22.7% of Americans with disabilities had a job, compared to 65.5% of those without disabilities? This stark gap isn’t due to a lack of talent or desire. Many people with disabilities are eager to […]
Michael Wraps Up His CBA with Support from Foster Thrift and CAA
We’re thrilled to share an exciting milestone in Michael’s journey: he has officially completed his Community Based Assessment (CBA) at Foster Thrift—and the experience has been a positive one for everyone involved. From day one, Foster Thrift’s manager, Leah, and her incredible team welcomed Michael with open arms. Whether assisting with retail tasks or learning […]
Stephanie Gains Real-World Experience Through Her CBA at Round Table Pizza
Stephanie is making great strides toward employment, and her current Community Based Assessment (CBA) at Round Table Pizza is helping her build the skills and confidence she needs to succeed. So far, Stephanie has had the chance to learn and apply real-world job tasks, including food preparation, stocking the salad bar, and bussing tables. With […]
Kevin Finds His Place in the Spotlight at the Tri-City Dust Devils
When Kevin first connected with Columbia Ability Alliance, he had one goal: to find meaningful employment. With the help of one of our dedicated Employment Specialists, Kevin began the journey to overcome barriers and navigate the job market with renewed confidence. Thanks to his hard work and determination—and a little teamwork from our side—Kevin landed […]
Debunking the Myths: Making Your Workplace More Inclusive for Adults with Disabilities
Are you a business owner curious about how to make your workplace more inclusive? Fostering an inclusive work environment isn’t just a feel-good initiative; it boosts morale, enhances your public image, and creates a more innovative, compassionate workplace. It’s important to remember that people with disabilities should be treated like everyone else: as people first, […]
Meet Richard T.
Every job seeker has a story and Richard Thomas’s story is one of perseverance, innovation, and heart. A client of Columbia Ability Alliance’s Employment Services Program, Richard is wheelchair-bound and non-verbal, but communicates fluently using adaptive technology mounted to his chair. His determination and positive energy are impossible to miss. In his video resume, Richard […]
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 (NDEAM), a time to celebrate the unique abilities and benefits individuals with disabilities possess and provide to workplaces. Individuals with disabilities want to belong just like everyone else. And like […]
We Are Excited to Welcome David Haldeman as Our Divisional Programs Manager
Columbia Ability Alliance (CAA) is proud to announce the hiring of David Haldeman as its Divisional Programs Manager. He will be responsible for overseeing the agency’s Employment Services and Empowerment Place resource center, fostering partnerships with employers, and driving initiatives to empower individuals with disabilities and barriers in the community. David Haldeman brings a wealth […]
Columbia Ability Alliance Achieves Three-Year CARF Accreditation
Editor’s note: Columbia Industries has since rebranded to Columbia Ability Alliance. Columbia Ability Alliance, formerly known as Columbia Industries, proudly announces its three-year accreditation by CARF International for its employment services program. This accreditation decision represents the highest level of accreditation that can be awarded and illustrates the organization’s substantial conformance to the CARF standards. […]