As part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), the Charles Lea Center is proud to recognize local employers who are creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities through its Career Prep Program.
Two outstanding community partners, Chuck E. Cheese and McDonald's of Duncan, were recently honored as Champions for Individuals with Disabilities for their commitment to workplace inclusion and supported employment.
The Charles Lea Center's Career Prep Program helps individuals with disabilities gain the skills, confidence, and experience needed to achieve meaningful employment. Through job readiness training, individualized support, job coaching, and employer partnerships, the program creates pathways to greater independence while helping businesses build dedicated and reliable workforces.
At Chuck E. Cheese, Fred and Ben have become valued members of the team, contributing to daily operations and helping create a fun, welcoming environment for guests. Their success demonstrates how inclusive hiring practices benefit both employees and employers.
At McDonald's of Duncan, Jimmy has earned the respect and appreciation of his coworkers through his strong work ethic, preparation, and positive attitude. A dedicated employee who genuinely loves his job, Jimmy has become an important part of the team. His coworkers enjoy working alongside him, making it a successful partnership for everyone involved.
These employment success stories show what's possible when businesses focus on ability and potential. When individuals with disabilities are given opportunities to succeed, employers gain dependable team members, and our entire community benefits. It’s a win-win for everyone.
In addition to individual job placements, the Career Prep Program offers onsite work enclaves, where groups of individuals work together at local businesses with support and supervision. This flexible model helps employers meet workforce needs while providing valuable employment opportunities for participants.
As National Disability Employment Awareness Month highlights the importance of inclusive workplaces, the Charles Lea Center thanks Chuck E. Cheese and McDonald's of Duncan for their leadership in creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities to thrive.
About the Charles Lea Center Career Prep Program
The Charles Lea Center's Career Prep Program prepares individuals with disabilities for success in the workforce through job readiness training, supported employment services, job coaching, and partnerships with local employers. The program also offers onsite work enclaves, creating additional pathways to employment, independence, and community inclusion.
Interested in Partnering?
Businesses interested in learning more about supported employment opportunities or onsite work enclaves can contact the Charles Lea Center at info@charleslea.org.
