November 21, 2024

Easterseals Receives Investment from DuPont for Supported Employment Program

New Castle, DE – Easterseals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore recently received a grant from DuPont to support its Supported Employment program – a program which opens the door to meaningful work and competitive wages in the community for adults with intellectual disabilities, while providing employers with dedicated, productive employees. Each year, Easterseals partners with over 60 businesses around Delaware to recruit and train individuals with disabilities for their workplace.

Thanks to the DuPont grant, employees like Robbie Larsen get to work their dream job while their Easterseals Supported Employment Specialist provides on the job training and support, when needed, on the job.
Thanks to the DuPont grant, employees like Robbie Larsen get to work their dream job while their Easterseals Supported Employment Specialist provides on the job training and support, when needed, on the job. – Contributed Photo
“We are proud of our long-term partnership with Easterseals,” said Patrick McCrummen, Global Community Impact Leader at DuPont. “Investing in programs that drive equity and inclusion is just one example of how DuPont combines a commitment to our communities with the passion of our employees to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people around the world.”

The grant from DuPont directly impacts the lives of the people Easterseals serves through the Supported Employment program, like Robbie Larsen of Dover. Starting out as a seasonal worker at Lowe’s in Dover, Robbie earned his way to a permanent full time position because of his work ethic and enthusiasm. He loves his job and says that it is the first job where he is “excited to go to work.” His coworkers and management admire his dedication and truly appreciated him throughout the pandemic.

“This grant from DuPont helps further our mission of providing services to increase independence for people with disabilities. Our Supported Employment Program is such a success thanks to our community partners and to the hard working employees who fill these essential roles,” Easterseals President/CEO, Kenan Sklenar, said. “We are grateful for the continued generous support of DuPont for believing in our mission, our services and, above all, the people we serve. We could not do it without our supporters!”

Business who are interested in learning more about Easterseals Supported Employment Services should contact Jane Schuler at 302-221-2030 or email ESworks@esdel.org.

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Easterseals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore offers a range of services, including children’s therapies, assistive technology, recreational camping, day programs for adults with physical or intellectual disabilities, and respite services for caregivers. To learn more about how Easterseals helps children and adults with disabilities, call 1-800-677-3800 or visit www.de.easterseals.com.

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