AbilityLinks

12/24/2024

Happy Holidays from all of us at AbilityLinks! As the year comes to a close, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for the incredible support from our community of advocates, partners, and champions of inclusion. Together, we’ve worked tirelessly to connect people with disabilities and Veterans to meaningful employment opportunities, empowering individuals and strengthening communities.

This holiday season, we celebrate the progress we’ve made and look forward to the possibilities ahead in the New Year. Let’s continue building a world where everyone has the chance to thrive and shine. Wishing you a season filled with joy, love, and endless opportunities!

12/18/2024

This Holiday Season, Give the Gift of Opportunity 🎁

Your donation to AbilityLinks helps connect job seekers with disabilities and veterans to inclusive employers, empowering individuals to achieve independence and build brighter futures.

This season of giving, you can make a real difference. Every contribution supports our mission to expand outreach, foster workplace diversity, and create life-changing opportunities.

Donate today and help us continue this vital work:
https://donorbox.org/abilitylinks-donations

Together, we can make this holiday season one of hope and opportunity for all.

AbilityLinks relies upon donors and sponsors like you to do our important work. Donations of any size are welcome and appreciated. If you want to discuss sponsoring contact us here.

11/21/2024

We sincerely thank the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for sharing our mission of connecting Veterans with inclusive employers who recognize and value their unique skills and experiences.

At AbilityLinks, our free online job board is committed to supporting Veterans as they transition to civilian careers. Together, we can provide access to meaningful job opportunities, tailored resources, and a supportive community that understands their journey.

By joining us, you help empower Veterans to take the next step in their career path. Visit AbilityLinks.org to explore opportunities and start your journey today!

Discover more about creating supportive environments for Veterans through our insightful interviews with organizations like Accenture, ADUSA Distribution & Transportation, Avnet, Easterseals PORT Health, Newpark, and Northwestern Medicine.

https://news.va.gov/136556/finding-employment-after-service/?utm_source=middle&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=VetResources&utm_id=20NOV2024

11/11/2024

This Veterans Day, Newpark Resources honors the service and dedication of Veterans through the voices of two employees who are living examples of how military experience translates into success in the civilian workforce.

Newpark, a leader in sustainable technologies supporting the energy infrastructure markets, is committed to providing innovative solutions across the global energy transition. Headquartered in The Woodlands, Texas, Newpark has a strong presence across all continents, making them a trusted partner for customers worldwide.

Hear from two Veterans, Kevin Wilson and Chris Collins, about their experiences working at Newpark and the supportive environment they’ve found.

Kevin Wilson, Lead Operator at Newpark
Kevin, a former Army service member with the 4th Infantry Division, served in Operation Iraqi Freedom. His military experience shaped his strong work ethic, focusing on reliability, task completion, and leadership. At Newpark, he finds his high standards are supported by fellow Veterans in leadership roles, making his transition to civilian work smooth.

Chris Collins, Business Development Manager at NewparkChris, a 7-year Veteran of the 1st Infantry Division, joined Newpark after serving as a petroleum specialist. His military leadership skills and core Army values have guided his growth in the energy sector, where he is supported by a team that values Veterans' unique skills.

To learn more about their Veteran initiatives , click here (https://buff.ly/3YHMd4x).

11/11/2024

This Veterans Day, Northwestern Medicine honors Veterans, service members, and their families through the Veterans Chapter of the NM Champion Network. Since its launch in 2023, the chapter has grown to 157 members, driving impactful community outreach.

Leaders Jennifer Koziel and Mike Diakoumis embody the spirit of service. Jennifer, a Navy Veteran with 26 years of Active Duty and Reserve service, including deployments for Operation Iraqi and Enduring Freedom, is the Co-Vice Chair of the Veterans Chapter. Now a Practice Manager at Northwestern Medicine, she is dedicated to supporting Veterans’ transitions to civilian life through community outreach and mentorship.

Mike, an Army Veteran and former Infantryman and US Army Ranger with 4 years of service, co-founded the Veterans Chapter at NM Champion Network. As a Talent Development Manager at Northwestern Medicine, he focuses on empowering Veterans through workforce development initiatives, educational workshops, and building community partnerships. Together, their leadership highlights the power of connection and giving back.

Discover more about the Veterans Chapter of the NM Champion Network by clicking here (https://buff.ly/3YHMd4x).

11/11/2024

On this , we’re proud to showcase Easterseals PORT Health and their unwavering dedication to supporting Veterans!

Anna Roberts, Marine Corps Veteran and IT Service Desk team member, shared: “For the first time, my military experience feels genuinely valued. Easterseals PORT Health’s Veteran ERG has helped me transition, connect, and grow.”

With inclusive initiatives, day-one benefits, and a culture of respect, Easterseals empowers Veterans to achieve their fullest potential in the workforce and beyond. Thank you for fostering a community where every Veteran can continue to make a difference!

To learn more about Easterseals dedication to supporting Veterans, click here (https://buff.ly/3YHMd4x)

11/11/2024

On this Veterans Day, AbilityLinks is proud to highlight the experiences of Veterans who bring leadership, adaptability, and resilience to their civilian careers.

Griffin Peters, a Customer Operations Manager and former Naval Officer, found connection and a shared sense of purpose within Avnet’s Veteran ERG. He highlights how Avnet’s inclusive culture and support networks transform daunting transitions into meaningful civilian careers.

Geoffrey Davis, a Senior Financial Planning Analyst and Army Reserve veteran, emphasizes the value of camaraderie among Veterans. The ERG offers a space to connect, support each other, and continue growing together.

We honor Veterans who continue to serve their communities through meaningful work. Your skills, dedication, and stories enrich workplaces everywhere.

To learn more about Avnet and their Veteran ERG, click here (https://buff.ly/3YHMd4x).

11/11/2024

This Veterans Day we excited to highlight two Veterans at ADUSA Distribution and Transportation who exemplify dedication, service, and leadership. 🇺🇸

Jeffrey Heller, a retired Army CW2 and Food Safety Supervisor, is helping shape our Veteran community through initiatives like the 'Buddy Program,' easing transitions for new hires and fostering lasting connections.

Tyrell Croughter, Senior Operations Manager and former Navy Officer, highlights how ADUSA D&T creates a culture reminiscent of military camaraderie—valuing integrity, fairness, and community for all associates.

Thank you, Jeffrey, Tyrell, and all Veterans, for your service and continued impact. Your stories inspire us to drive transformation together.

To learn more about ADUSA D&T's commitment to Veteran inclusion, click here: https://buff.ly/3YHMd4x

11/11/2024

On this Veterans Day, we are honored to spotlight the courageous Veterans within Accenture’s North America Veteran ERG. 🇺🇸

Autumn Tolliver, a former Army Officer, leads Accenture’s NA Military ERG, championing community, career growth, and mental health support for Veterans. Her dedication ensures every Veteran feels empowered in their transition and professional journey.

Tamara Norwood, a former Air Force Medic, turned transition challenges into a pathway for success at Accenture. With the Veteran ERG’s support, she blends military leadership with new skills, fostering growth and collaboration.

Thank you, Autumn, Tamara, and all Veterans, for your service and for inspiring us every day.

If you are interested in learning more about Accenture's Veteran ERG, click here (https://buff.ly/4ehpxOk).

10/31/2024

Happy Halloween from AbilityLinks! 🎃👻 Wishing you a fun filled day with treats, costumes, and employment opportunities!

10/30/2024

As comes to a close, it's important to remember that only 7 million out of 33 million+ people living with disabilities in the US are employed, despite their talents and contributions. Employers who embrace inclusive hiring see higher employee retention, innovation, and a positive workplace culture.

At AbilityLinks, we're dedicated to bridging the gap—connecting talented job seekers with disabilities to employers who recognize the value of diversity. Let’s continue to push for an inclusive workforce, today and every day.

If you are a job seeker looking for employment or an employer looking to hire, please sign today at AbilityLinks.org!

10/29/2024

National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is a time to celebrate the contributions of workers with disabilities and challenge misconceptions. Here’s a list of debunked myths about hiring people with disabilities.

Myth: People with disabilities have lower productivity.
Fact: Studies show employees with disabilities perform just as well, with loyalty and productivity at equal or higher levels (U.S. Department of Labor; DePaul University).

Myth: Accommodations are too expensive.
Fact: 59% of accommodations cost nothing, and those that do average only $500—often offset by tax incentives (Job Accommodation Network- JAN).

Myth: People with disabilities are absent more often.
Fact: Attendance is comparable or better than peers without disabilities (Walgreens).

Myth: Hiring people with disabilities will impact company culture negatively.
Fact: Employees at companies with disability inclusion report feeling more engaged, inspired, and aligned with their company’s mission. (Accenture).

Myth: People with disabilities aren’t interested in career advancement.
Fact: Many actively seek opportunities to grow and contribute their skills (Kessler Foundation).

Let’s stop making assumptions and start putting more people with disabilities and Veterans to work! Promote your open roles on AbilityLinks today.

10/28/2024

Hiring people with disabilities not only strengthens your team but also offers financial benefits.

Employers can access valuable tax credits like:
- Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) - up to $9,600 for hiring qualified candidates
- Disabled Access Credit - up to $5,000 to make your business more accessible
- Barrier Removal Deduction - deduct up to $15,000 for accessibility improvements

Make a positive impact and enjoy these benefits by partnering with AbilityLinks! Register today and help put more people with disabilities and Veterans to work.

Read more about these tax benefits and others at: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/tax-benefits-for-businesses-who-have-employees-with-disabilities

10/23/2024

Building an inclusive workforce starts with four essential pillars:

- Diverse Brand Equity – Creating a brand that showcases your commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Sourcing Strategically – Actively seeking out diverse candidates and building strong partnerships.
- Organizational Support – Cultivating a culture where everyone feels valued and empowered.
- Fair Hiring Practices – Ensuring equal opportunities at every stage of the hiring process.

Together, these pillars lay the foundation for a more equitable and inclusive workplace. Let’s build a better future together, register today by going to abilitylinks.org

10/21/2024

We’re excited to welcome Easterseals PORT Health as a new Employer Sponsor of AbilityLinks!

Easterseals PORT Health is a trusted and compassionate partner, providing top-notch disability, behavioral health, and addiction treatment services that empower people to thrive. With a diverse and inclusive team of 2,600 members, they deliver over 10.2 million hours of support to 40,200 children, adults, and families throughout North Carolina and Virginia.

Together, we’re making a difference by connecting people with disabilities and Veterans to meaningful employment. Explore opportunities with Easterseals PORT Health and join a team committed to positive change!

Check out their open roles on AbilityLinks.org today!

10/18/2024

This National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we’re thrilled to highlight Generali Global Assistance’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. Deven McCray, Manager of Employee Experience, shares how GGA is breaking barriers and empowering underrepresented voices, with a focus on disability inclusion.

“Inclusion means creating a culture where every voice is valued,” Deven says. Discover how GGA’s initiatives are driving engagement and enhancing employee well-being in our NDEAM feature article!

To read the full article, click here: https://abilitylinks.org/JobSeekerResourcesDetail/1125

10/17/2024

As we celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we’re proud to showcase GovExec’s dedication to fostering diversity and mental health awareness. Jasmine Schaller, Senior Associate in Talent Acquisition and Leader of the Mental Health ERG, shares insights into how GovExec builds an inclusive workplace that supports all employees.

“Inclusion means creating a space where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued,” Jasmine says. Discover more about GovExec’s initiatives to empower individuals with disabilities and how they align with their core values in our NDEAM feature article!

To read the full article, click here: https://abilitylinks.org/JobSeekerResourcesDetail/1125


10/16/2024

In celebration of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we’re proud to spotlight our employer sponsor, Easterseals PORT Health, a nonprofit dedicated to providing equal opportunities for people with disabilities to live, learn, work, and thrive in their communities. Kelly King, Administrative Assistant for 19 years, reflects on how inclusion is at the heart of Easterseals’ mission.

“Inclusion means everyone is welcomed, included, and heard, regardless of abilities or differences,” Kelly shares. Discover more about Easterseals PORT Health’s commitment to empowering individuals through meaningful employment in our NDEAM feature article!

To read the full article, click here: https://abilitylinks.org/JobSeekerResourcesDetail/1125