When people hear about employment programs, they sometimes think of them as “just jobs” or temporary roles with little growth. But the AbilityOne Program proves that real opportunity is about much more than a paycheck. As one of the nation’s leading disability employment programs, AbilityOne has become a foundation for growth, training, and lasting careers. It’s not only helping people step into the workforce but also providing them a step forward into their futures.

The Mission of AbilityOne

At its core, AbilityOne is a federal job program for people with disabilities that connects government contracts to nonprofit partners like Garten. Supported by SourceAmerica, this program opens doors across the nation, ensuring that thousands of individuals gain meaningful work.

But it’s about more than filling positions. At Garten, AbilityOne is a testament to focusing on ability, not limitation. It’s about seeing potential and building pathways for employees to learn, thrive, and advance.

More Than a Paycheck: Skill Development

Every job teaches something, but the jobs created through AbilityOne go a step further by building both core workplace skills and industry-specific knowledge.

• Core skills: Time management, teamwork, communication, and customer service.
• Industry training: Employees at Garten gain hands-on experience in landscaping, custodial services, and secure document destruction.
• Certifications: Many also earn credentials, such as equipment training or safety certifications, which add value for future roles.

For employees, these aren’t just skills for today; they’re building blocks for tomorrow.

Confidence and Independence

Structured work brings structure to life. Through AbilityOne, employees gain confidence by setting goals, accomplishing tasks, and earning recognition for their work. That confidence doesn’t stay at the workplace; it carries into every aspect of life, reinforcing the value of inclusive employment in building independence.

We’ve seen employees become stronger self-advocates, speaking up for themselves, communicating what they need, and celebrating what they’ve achieved. Families often share how this new confidence leads to greater independence at home, stronger relationships, and a fuller sense of belonging in the community.

Pathways to Long-Term Careers

AbilityOne also creates career pathways, not just entry-level opportunities. At Garten, many employees have advanced from one department to another, broadening their skill sets and discovering new talents. Others have taken on leadership roles, mentoring their peers and helping shape stronger teams.

For some, AbilityOne becomes a launching pad into jobs beyond Garten, creating sustainable career pathways for people with disabilities. The experience and training they gain give them the qualifications to succeed in roles both at Garten and beyond.

Why It Matters: Impact on Community

When individuals thrive in meaningful careers, communities thrive too. Families gain stability. Businesses benefit from a skilled, motivated workforce. And society grows more inclusive, with workplaces that reflect the true diversity of human potential.

At Garten, we’re proud to play a part in this ripple effect. By leveraging AbilityOne, we’re shaping a workforce that values inclusion, growth, and long-term success.

A Career Journey, Not Just a Job

We invite you to support AbilityOne and programs like it, whether by partnering with Garten, sharing these stories, or simply spreading the word about the power of inclusive employment.

Share this story to spread awareness during National Disability Employment Awareness Month and help champion workplace inclusion in your community.