Think back on all those stories…courageous family members who supported and encouraged their loved ones to leave the sheltered workshop and take those first small steps to a community job…talented people with disabilities who learned about their own talents and interests and began to dream a new dream.

In Fiscal Year 2009 AtWork! staff conducted 367 tours of businesses and potential job sites; the people we serve encountered new environments, discovered their interests, and built experiences that promote true choice.

AtWork!’s commercial enterprises held their own during a tough year for many small businesses. Recycling expanded to e-cycle and scrape metal, mitigating the impact of a dramatically depressed commodities market. Landscaping hauled more debris from King County Storm Drainage Ponds than any previous year and the shop’s high quality, efficient, on-time delivery of products minimized financial losses.

In Fiscal Year 2009 people with disabilities working in AtWork!’s social enterprises earned over $250,000. AtWork! finished the year with a general fund operating profit of $12,720, a testimony to quality service, strong supporters, and solid management.

Teamwork, perseverance, dedication, going the extra-mile for the cause… these are just words that don’t do enough to describe you…a catalyst for changing the face of employment in 2009. Thank you hardworking staff (staff turnover decreased to only 17% in 2009), caring donors and supporters (351 individuals contributed in 2009, including many parents and family members), an involved and committed board (we passed 5 separate audits and compliance reviews with flying colors), customers, employers, funders…all of you who care about equality in employment for people with disabilities. Whether you see it “by the numbers” or in the happy faces of the people we serve…2009 was a very good year.

To read inspiring stories of progress, acceptance and inclusion visit our website.

Labels: stories