A Wyoming-based nonprofit has reached a job-seeking milestone.
Beyond26, a faith-based organization helping job seekers with disabilities find employment, recently said it paired its 100th individual with an employer.
Kevin, whose last name was held for privacy reasons, is a 34-year-old Grand Rapids resident with autism and was hired as an associate at J&H Family Stores in Grandville.
“It is very apropos that Kevin was our 100th job seeker placement and that it happened during Autism Awareness Month,” said Dirk Bakhuyzen, executive director at Beyond26. “There’s no better way to advocate for members of our community than by helping them find a sense of purpose, community and profound pride.”
Kevin works 20 hours per week and is responsible for stocking shelves, light custodial work and other day-to-day tasks. The role allows him to move at his own pace in a controlled environment.
“I love it here,” Kevin said. “Everyone is really nice. I know what I’m supposed to do, and they’re pleased with my work.”
Loren Hoppen, operations manager at J&H Family Stores, said the collaboration with Beyond26 has been beneficial in meeting necessary staffing levels and also transformed company culture. Since 2018, J&H Family Stores has hired 12 Beyond26 jobseekers at various locations.
“In a time where we cannot find enough employees, we’ve got good workers from Beyond26 who help keep our business running well,” Hoppen said. “Turning the ‘me culture’ into a ‘we culture’ applies perfectly to what has happened to our company since we began working with these job seekers. I’m grateful.”
Beyond26 launched in 2018 and has since worked with more than 50 companies to provide job and volunteer opportunities.
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