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 – June 2024). Our commitment to empowering individuals with unique abilities to overcome barriers and enrich our community has never been stronger. For over six decades, since 1963, we’ve built an alliance with clients, caregivers, and community partners, working together to make a difference every day.
Employment Services: Empowering Careers
This year has been transformative for our Employment Services program. Under the leadership of David Haldeman, our new Divisional Programs Manager, we have seen remarkable growth. We served 73 clients, provided over 2,650 hours of job coaching, and placed 33 clients into meaningful employment. Our expanded network of 35 employer partners across the Tri-Cities has opened new opportunities for our clients in inclusive workplaces. Notably, 60% of our Columbia Ability Alliance workforce, including those through federal contracts, are individuals with disabilities, reflecting our ongoing commitment to inclusivity and empowerment.
Opportunity Kitchen: Culinary Success
Opportunity Kitchen continues to make a significant impact through its vocational training programs. This year, we celebrated the graduation of 15 students across three cohorts, each demonstrating remarkable growth and readiness for the workforce. Our 12-week program, featuring 774 hours of hands-on training and 116 hours of life skills education, prepares students for careers in food service, catering, and hospitality. Additionally, the fully-equipped cafeteria within the Richland Federal Building has been a hub of activity, serving high-quality food and providing practical experience for our students. Our expanded catering and contract work have further broadened our reach and impact.
Community Center: Building Connections
The Community Center has made great strides in enhancing social integration and community engagement. We organized a variety of activities, including regular Friday events and 15 weekend outings, fostering a strong sense of community among participants. Our partnerships with local organizations such as First Interstate Bank, Battelle, and Ted Brown Music have enriched our programs. Thanks to our generous donors, we completed significant interior renovations, creating a more welcoming and functional space for our clients to connect, thrive, and enrich their lives.
Federal Building: Service Excellence
Under the AbilityOne contract, we’ve continued to provide essential janitorial and grounds maintenance services to the Federal Building. This year marked a significant milestone as one of our dedicated janitors celebrated his 19th work anniversary. We also launched our Mobile Janitorial initiative, partnering with organizations like Meier Architecture and Grace Clinic to expand our reach and impact. These efforts underscore our commitment to quality and inclusivity, advancing our mission and supporting more individuals in their professional journeys.
Solutions: Personalized Success
Our Solutions department has been instrumental in providing contract fulfillment projects and technical skills development. This year, we successfully maintained a steady stream of welding hood orders from the US Navy and expanded our outreach with newly designed brochures. Our team, including experienced mentors and new hires, completed 125,000 hoods through 6 contracts. The dedication of our staff and the support they provide exemplify the spirit of unity and achievement at Solutions.
Conclusion
We are incredibly proud of the achievements highlighted in our 2023-2024 Impact Report. These successes are a testament to the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and supporters. Together, we are creating a more inclusive and accessible community for all. We invite you to explore the full details of our impact and see how your support has made a difference by reading our complete impact report.
Discover more about our impact and join us in celebrating these accomplishments by accessing the full 2023-2024 Impact Report here: Columbia Ability Alliance Impact Report.
Thank you for being a part of our journey and for your unwavering support in helping us make a positive impact in our community.
