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Invisible Differences

The CDC estimates that 26% of adults in the United States have some form of disability.

A disability is any condition of the body or mind that makes it more difficult for the person with the condition to do certain activities and interact with the world around them. There are many different types of disabilities and between 80%-96% are hidden or not easy to see, including intellectual differences.

We asked Betsy and Kit, her mother, to share what it is like to live with an invisible intellectual difference.

Q: How do you refer to your disability?

Betsy: Differences.

Q: Why is that?

Betsy: Because I prefer that word. We all have differences and this is just one kind of difference, but we are also all more alike than different.

Q: Tell me what an average day in the life of Betsy looks like.

Betsy: I wake up, make my breakfast, feed my cat, and get ready for the day. I live at The Arc Village. I have two jobs. I'm an artist with Art With Soul at North Florida School of Special Education, and I just got a job at Windsor Pointe of Jacksonville with the culinary department.

Q: Did you forsee Betsy would be living independently and working as an adult?

Kit: I never doubted Betsy could do what she puts her mind to, but until recently there weren't many opportunities for independent living in our country. When The Arc Jacksonville Village broke ground, I knew right away, this was a place Betsy could thrive independently. Betsy has so much to offer workplaces and people. I couldn't imagine her not working.

Q: What are some of Betsy’s best qualities?

Kit: Betsy is bright, creative, kind, loving, proactive, encouraging, and a very thoughtful caregiver. She wants to love and be loved, and is very helpful.

Q: Do you ever feel like your coworkers or customers don’t understand that you may process information differently?

Betsy: At my last job, and it hurt my feelings.

Kit: These are all opportunities for managers and businesses to strive for a gold-standard culture of inclusivity. This includes ongoing education for coworkers, team-building, and providing reasonable accommodations. Research shows that these measures make businesses more appealing to job applicants and consumers.

Q: Do you have any advice on how to interact with people with intellectual differences?

Betsy: It's just like you would treat anyone else, with kindness and respect. Remember that we are all more alike than different. 

Kit: Everyone has something to contribute and is of value to our community. When we take the time to get to know someone, we discover that for ourselves.

Join us in celebrating inclusive businesses and capable employees like Betsy, on Shopability Saturday, April 30th!

Invisible Differences

We encourage you to learn what matters most to our community members with Autism, Down syndrome, and other IDD and invite you to be a part of positive change.

During Connectable Roundtable Discussions, over forty stakeholders gathered to answer the question: How do we make Jacksonville the best place to live, work, and play for individuals with Autism, Down syndrome, and other intellectual and developmental differences/disabilities (IDD)?

We all agree that Jacksonville is already a great place! Still, we are impacted by similar quality of life barriers that those with IDD face across the country. We looked at these issues locally to pinpoint gaps, resources, and proposed solutions. While not an exhaustive list, the Connectable Roundtable Summary Report highlights priority issues.

We encourage you to learn what matters to our community members with IDD and invite you to use your influence for positive change. 

Please email us at info@connectablejax.com to arrange a meeting with stakeholders about one or more of the topics covered in this report. 

Invisible Differences

Living in our house together has been really great. We love to cook, workout, and we support each other through good and tough times. We especially love hanging out with our best friends. We go out every Friday night and sometimes we do a cookout. We go to church on Sundays and enjoy going to the beach. Megan and I love to compete in Special Olympics sports. With my crazy work schedule, I love to see Megan when I come home from a long day of work. ~ Jimmy

Housing opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental differences (IDD) vary in Northeast Florida -- from independent living, semi-independent, to group home settings.

Independent and Semi-Independent Living

In Jacksonville, we have some great housing options, including The Arc Village. This national model independent living community carries a lengthy waitlist due to the demand. Residents, like newlyweds Megan and Jimmy, live independently in single or double-occupancy units. They can enjoy camaraderie around the pool and at a club house or relax in the privacy of their own home. It provides both independence and strong community friendships.

Several nonprofit organizations operate supportive housing sprinkled throughout neighborhoods and apartments. These are generally double or triple occupancy units in single-family or multi-family living communities.

Supportive Housing - Group Homes

Group homes offer a step-up in support for those who need more assistance to have an optimal quality of life. Support staff provides around-the-clock guidance, meals, safety, and security. Some group homes are on nonprofit campuses and others are nonprofit-owned homes in neighborhoods.

"I love living with my friends, they are like family to me. I enjoy watching TV. I can relax in my home and do whatever I want to do, which is nice." ~ Patrick, Pine Castle resident

Group Homes are a Connectable opportunity! Many of these homes welcome volunteers to socialize and lend a hand.  Click a logo below to get started. 

Affordability

Access to housing and affordability are challenges for many individuals with IDD. Affordability presents a barrier to access for those who are not enrolled on the Med Waiver or able to pay the cost of rent and support services out of pocket. It can cost as much as $60,000 for group homes with 24/7 support staff. Access to housing is one of a myriad of reasons advocates lobby for the State of Florida to fully fund the Med Waiver program, as the waiting list is years long.

In a progressive move, the Florida Housing Finance Corp has responded to the voices of advocates and offers grants for developers to build affordable housing for special needs across the state. Now we need organizations that will manage the special needs of residents at these properties.

Respite Housing

A great need exists in our community for respite housing for those with IDD and behavioral health conditions. Challenges arise for some caregivers during the teenage years. When a small child with a behavioral health issue grows into a large teenager, meltdowns can become difficult to manage and a danger to siblings. This becomes a crisis that stabilization and respite housing can help alleviate.

During Connectable Roundtable Discussions, housing was identified as a key priority to making Jacksonville the best place to live, work, and play for individuals with IDD. Click here to read the full report.

Invisible Differences

School Choice Week is a great time to highlight the connectable Roundtable priority of "Navigating Schools."

Genevieve is one of my best friends and my favorite people! She lights up every room she walks into with her genuine kindness and her love for humor. Throughout these four years, she’s taught me more than I could have ever expected about patience, loyalty, and true friendship. ~Kyra, Best Buddies peer

Connecting with people of varying abilities teaches us that we are more alike than different. Encourage your children to reach out to peers who are differently abled. Exposure at an early age promotes a lifetime of inclusion.

Inclusion in Traditional Schools

Parents of children with Autism, Down syndrome, and other IDD all agree on one thing. They want their children to become their best self and a world that embraces them!

Since parents have different visions of how to best reach this goal, education is not one-size-fits-all. Regardless of the path they choose, many parents report difficulty in understanding how to access private schools through School Choice or navigate the IEP accommodations in public schools for optimal inclusion. This is a nationwide challenge that plays out differently on a local level based on the school district and private school options. This article will touch on both school choice and inclusion in traditional schools.

Inclusion in Traditional School

“I wouldn’t change my child for the world, but I’ll change the world for my child.”

This is one of the answers parents give when asked why they work so hard to make sure their children receives needed accommodations in public education. They desire for their children to receive equal opportunity in public schools, just with necessary lesson accommodations and supports. Parents express wanting typically developing students to have the opportunity to meet and interact with their neurodiverse children. After all, they will be the hiring managers of tomorrow.

It can be difficult advocating for children in public education designed for typically developing students, especially when resources are limited in public schools. Learning the ins and outs of advocacy is essential. Every parent should consider attending Family Café in person or virtually to get the tools needed to be equipped for a life of advocacy. Educational advocates are also available to help families navigate education, including those listed below.

School Choice

Other parents prefer private school environments tailored to prepare children with IDD for the world. Private schools report that students thrive in environments that focus on identifying and developing abilities rather than accommodating disabilities. These schools offer specialized curriculum, onsite therapy, small staff ratios, vocational training, medical support, and other resources tailored to abilities and independence levels. The Family Empowerment Scholarship for Students with Unique Abilities (FES-UA) allows parents to personalize the education of their children with unique abilities by directing money toward a combination of programs and approved providers. These funds can be applied toward private school tuition.

Many parents move across the country and even drive up from Palm Coast and down from Georgia to attend one of the special education schools in our area. Still, some parents don’t know how to access funding to attend these schools at no cost. Early education would help! These are just some of the private schools in Northeast Florida.

In addition to private schools, Duval County Public Schools offers several Exceptional Student Education Centers.

Learn more about important issues impacting our community members with Autism, Down syndrome, and other IDD by reading the Connectable Roundtable Discussion Report.

Invisible Differences

Today there are still many misconceptions about Down syndrome and those who have it. During Down syndrome Awareness Month, we hope to dispel some of the common myths about Down syndrome. Discover how we are more alike than different!

MYTH: Down syndrome is a rare disorder.

TRUTH: Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition. Approximately one in every 700 babies in the United States is born with Down syndrome, or around 6,000 births per year

MYTH: People with Down syndrome are always happy.

TRUTH: People with Down syndrome have feelings just like anyone else. They experience the full range of emotions. They respond to positive expressions of friendship and are hurt and upset by inconsiderate behavior.

MYTH: People with Down syndrome cannot be active members of their community.

TRUTH: People with Down syndrome are active participants in educational, social and recreational activities. They are included in the typical education system and take part in sports, music, art programs and any other activities in the community. People with Down syndrome are valued members of their families and communities, and make meaningful contributions to society.

MYTH: Adults with Down syndrome are unable to form close interpersonal relationships leading to marriage.

TRUTH: People with Down syndrome socialize and have meaningful friendships. Some choose to date, maintain ongoing relationships and marry.

MYTH: Adults with Down syndrome are unemployable.

TRUTH: Businesses employ adults with Down syndrome for a variety of positions – in banks, corporations, hotels, hospitals, nursing homes, offices and restaurants. They work in the music and entertainment industry, in clerical positions, childcare, the sports field and the computer industry, to name a few. Like anybody else, people with Down syndrome want to have a job where their work will be valued.

MYTH: Most children with Down syndrome are born to older parents.

TRUTH: Most children with Down syndrome are born to women younger than 35 years old simply because younger women have more children. However, the likelihood of having a child with Down syndrome increases with the age of the mother, especially after age 35.

MYTH: All people with Down syndrome have a severe cognitive disability.

TRUTH: Most people with Down syndrome have a mild to moderate cognitive disability, or intellectual disability. This is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses. Individuals with Down syndrome have many gifts and abilities to share with others and the world.

MYTH: Adults with Down syndrome are the same as children with Down syndrome.

TRUTH: Adults with Down syndrome are not children, and should not be considered children. They enjoy activities and companionship with other adults, and have similar needs and feelings as their typical peers.

MYTH: It is ok to use the “r-word” if you don’t really mean it.

TRUTH: It is never acceptable to use the word “retarded” in any derogatory context. Using this word is hurtful and
suggests that people with disabilities are not competent.

Source: National Down Syndrome Association

Today there are still many misconceptions about Down syndrome and those who have it. During Down syndrome Awareness Month, we hope to dispel some of the common myths about Down syndrome. Discover how we are more alike than different!

MYTH: Down syndrome is a rare disorder.

TRUTH: Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition. Approximately one in every 700 babies in the United States is born with Down syndrome, or around 6,000 births per year

MYTH: People with Down syndrome are always happy.

TRUTH: People with Down syndrome have feelings just like anyone else. They experience the full range of emotions. They respond to positive expressions of friendship and are hurt and upset by inconsiderate behavior.

MYTH: People with Down syndrome cannot be active members of their community.

TRUTH: People with Down syndrome are active participants in educational, social and recreational activities. They are included in the typical education system and take part in sports, music, art programs and any other activities in the community. People with Down syndrome are valued members of their families and communities, and make meaningful contributions to society.

MYTH: Adults with Down syndrome are unable to form close interpersonal relationships leading to marriage.

TRUTH: People with Down syndrome socialize and have meaningful friendships. Some choose to date, maintain ongoing relationships and marry.

MYTH: Adults with Down syndrome are unemployable.

TRUTH: Businesses employ adults with Down syndrome for a variety of positions – in banks, corporations, hotels, hospitals, nursing homes, offices and restaurants. They work in the music and entertainment industry, in clerical positions, childcare, the sports field and the computer industry, to name a few. Like anybody else, people with Down syndrome want to have a job where their work will be valued.

MYTH: Most children with Down syndrome are born to older parents.

TRUTH: Most children with Down syndrome are born to women younger than 35 years old simply because younger women have more children. However, the likelihood of having a child with Down syndrome increases with the age of the mother, especially after age 35.

MYTH: All people with Down syndrome have a severe cognitive disability.

TRUTH: Most people with Down syndrome have a mild to moderate cognitive disability, or intellectual disability. This is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses. Individuals with Down syndrome have many gifts and abilities to share with others and the world.

MYTH: Adults with Down syndrome are the same as children with Down syndrome.

TRUTH: Adults with Down syndrome are not children, and should not be considered children. They enjoy activities and companionship with other adults, and have similar needs and feelings as their typical peers.

MYTH: It is ok to use the “r-word” if you don’t really mean it.

TRUTH: It is never acceptable to use the word “retarded” in any derogatory context. Using this word is hurtful and
suggests that people with disabilities are not competent.

Source: National Down Syndrome Association

Today there are still many misconceptions about Down syndrome and those who have it. During Down syndrome Awareness Month, we hope to dispel some of the common myths about Down syndrome. Discover how we are more alike than different!

MYTH: Down syndrome is a rare disorder.

TRUTH: Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition. Approximately one in every 700 babies in the United States is born with Down syndrome, or around 6,000 births per year

MYTH: People with Down syndrome are always happy.

TRUTH: People with Down syndrome have feelings just like anyone else. They experience the full range of emotions. They respond to positive expressions of friendship and are hurt and upset by inconsiderate behavior.

MYTH: People with Down syndrome cannot be active members of their community.

TRUTH: People with Down syndrome are active participants in educational, social and recreational activities. They are included in the typical education system and take part in sports, music, art programs and any other activities in the community. People with Down syndrome are valued members of their families and communities, and make meaningful contributions to society.

MYTH: Adults with Down syndrome are unable to form close interpersonal relationships leading to marriage.

TRUTH: People with Down syndrome socialize and have meaningful friendships. Some choose to date, maintain ongoing relationships and marry.

MYTH: Adults with Down syndrome are unemployable.

TRUTH: Businesses employ adults with Down syndrome for a variety of positions – in banks, corporations, hotels, hospitals, nursing homes, offices and restaurants. They work in the music and entertainment industry, in clerical positions, childcare, the sports field and the computer industry, to name a few. Like anybody else, people with Down syndrome want to have a job where their work will be valued.

MYTH: Most children with Down syndrome are born to older parents.

TRUTH: Most children with Down syndrome are born to women younger than 35 years old simply because younger women have more children. However, the likelihood of having a child with Down syndrome increases with the age of the mother, especially after age 35.

MYTH: All people with Down syndrome have a severe cognitive disability.

TRUTH: Most people with Down syndrome have a mild to moderate cognitive disability, or intellectual disability. This is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses. Individuals with Down syndrome have many gifts and abilities to share with others and the world.

MYTH: Adults with Down syndrome are the same as children with Down syndrome.

TRUTH: Adults with Down syndrome are not children, and should not be considered children. They enjoy activities and companionship with other adults, and have similar needs and feelings as their typical peers.

MYTH: It is ok to use the “r-word” if you don’t really mean it.

TRUTH: It is never acceptable to use the word “retarded” in any derogatory context. Using this word is hurtful and
suggests that people with disabilities are not competent.

Source: National Down Syndrome Association

Invisible Differences

This article appeared in the Florida Times-Union on January 1, 2021. Read the original article here.

By Beth Reese Cravey

Robbie Culliton might be the first person people see when they enter the lobby of the VyStar Credit Union's headquarters building in downtown Jacksonville.

He also might be the first person VyStar employees see when they head to staff lounges for lunch or a work break in the game room, both of which he maintains and cleans.

As "tower host," he greets everyone with a smile and, during the pandemic, possibly an elbow bump. And if they have time to chat, he talks sports, music or whatever else they want to discuss.

Culliton, 25, and fellow VyStar special-needs employee Kelly Suddath are part of a new campaign called Shopability that showcases local businesses that employ individuals with autism, Down syndrome and other intellectual and developmental differences.

"One of my favorite parts of my job is talking to my co-workers," he said. "I've learned how to interact and socialize with more people. It has definitely been a great experience.

"For someone with special needs, it makes me feel good because I have a job like everyone else," he said. "I like that VyStar hires people with all abilities."

The Shopability campaign includes a searchable, interactive map that identifies about 125 "IDD-inclusive" businesses in the area. These employers include "uniquely abled individuals on their teams" through employment, internships or serving as a job site in partnership with a nonprofit.

The map will be the heart of "Shopability Saturday" on March 6, a citywide celebration encouraging the public to support those businesses.

Offshoot of the 2017 Connectable campaign

Shopability is a spinoff of a 2017 public awareness campaign called Connectable that focused on the ability of people like Culliton rather than their disability. Connectable was the brainchild of Jacksonville philanthropist Delores Barr Weaver, who has financially supported many nonprofits that serve special-needs populations.

"Nothing is more empowering than the opportunity to be a productive citizen," said Weaver, who funded both campaigns. "Shopability highlights those businesses that opened the door to our neighbors and friends with intellectual and developmental differences, resulting in a win-win relationship for both the employer and the employee. I salute these forward thinkers and hope others will grant similar opportunities."

VyStar worked with The Arc Jacksonville, a nonprofit that serves special-needs people, to employ Culliton and newly hired Suddath, a mailroom and supply clerk.

"I can bring to my employer that I am a friendly and kind person and a good listener and I try to be there for people," Suddath said.

"It is important to include people with all abilities because they bring different things to the table … It's important for everyone to have a job."

VyStar President and CEO Brian Wolfburg said hiring special-needs employees is part of the credit union's ongoing commitment to support its Northeast Florida base.

"It is extremely important to … VyStar as a whole that every individual in this community has the ability to work and earn an income as part of an organization in Northeast Florida," he said. "This campaign is just one more way we connect with our community."

The idea for Shopability was born when Jacksonville University geography professor Ashley Johnson asked her students to perform a service-learning project for Connectable, said director Sarah Troup. The end result was a map of IDD-inclusive businesses.

"We based our Shopability map on their prototype and elevated it to a communitywide campaign," she said. "COVID-19 put a strain on many businesses, so the timing is perfect to give back to the employers that have been inclusive of the IDD community for so long. We do not need to gather in crowds to celebrate Shopability Saturday, and we can pivot to curbside pick-up if needed."

The number of businesses on the map likely will increase as the campaign goes public.

"We know there are more out there. We are asking for the community’s help in identifying all of Jacksonville’s IDD-inclusive employers and listing them," she said.

Overcoming the 'fear of the unknown'

Some business owners are initially uneasy about special-needs hires, having "a fear of the unknown for those who don’t know someone with an IDD or aren’t sure how they could fit into their organization," Troup said. But they are typically glad they did make the hire.

"Their response is often the same, 'I wish I would have made the decision sooner. Bringing someone on our team was one of the best decisions I’ve made,'" she said. "Employment not only gives people with IDDs an opportunity to experience the fulfillment of a job well-done, research shows it makes our workplaces better too."

"Employment not only gives people with IDDs an opportunity to experience the fulfillment of a job well-done, research shows it makes our workplaces better too."

 Having a prominent business like VyStar participating is a boost to the campaign.

"The fact that VyStar employed Robbie last year and as a result of the positive experience decided to bring another employee on board speaks volumes to Robbie’s — and now Kelly’s — value and contribution in the workplace," Troup said. "I hope businesses will look to VyStar and see how well inclusive employment can work out for an organization.

"When I see people with IDDs in the workplace, I know that there is a shift in our culture toward greater acceptance and inclusion," she said. "I am heartened that they are being recognized and valued for the gifts and abilities they bring."

Beth Reese Cravey: bcravey@jacksonville.com

SHOPABILITY
Visit the map and get more information here.

Invisible Differences

When JU geography professor, Ashley Johnson, PhD, made an open-ended offer for her students to create a map as a service-learning study, she didn't know she would set into motion a citywide campaign.

Johnson’s offer and the students’ efforts were the foundation for Connectable’s Shopability, a citywide campaign to recognize Jacksonville’s inclusive employers and their uniquely able employees. “One of JU’s core values is developing community leaders, so this gives our students an opportunity to do just that” Johnson remarked.

Ten nonprofit job placement agencies united through Connectable gave students the names of 125 employers deserving of recognition. The students created an interactive map so consumers can locate and support the businesses. The map became the prototype for the campaign.

“Every marker on that map is not only an inclusive employer, but represents one or more people with intellectual differences who are at work in our community making an impact,” said Sarah Troup, Connectable director.

Founded by community philanthropist Delores Barr Weaver, Connectable unites individuals and organizations to shine a spotlight on the positive contributions that people with intellectual and developmental differences make in our lives and community, and creates meaningful connections.

“People with Autism, Down syndrome and other intellectual differences have incredible gifts and abilities to share,” said Troup. “Shopability is our chance to support employers who include these uniquely able individuals on their team, whether it is employment, internships, or serving as a job site in partnership with a nonprofit.”

The JU service-learning project culminated with the students presenting their map to Troup and Kelly Suddath, advocate from The Arc Jacksonville.

JU Senior, Kayla McGhee was glad to see how many businesses employ people with intellectual differences because "we all deserve an opportunity to work.” Suddath shared from personal experience, “I want people to focus on my abilities because everyone has something to bring to the table.”

Next steps for the Shopability campaign include building upon the students’ work. Troup is asking for the community's help in putting every IDD-inclusive employer on the map.

Submit your favorite inclusive employer or find a business to support by clicking here, and save the date for Shopability Saturday, March 6, 2021.

Auld & White is Building a Brighter Future for People of All Abilities

Nathan Marty, CEO of Auld & White Constructors, made the pledge to employ an individual with intellectual differences as a part of the 20 in 20 campaign. This decision came full circle when Auld & White hired a young man from North Florida School of Special Education (NFSSE). While building the campus expansion, Auld & White team members met many of the NFSSE students and were inspired by their unique abilities. Today, Ben is making an impact and continues to impress his coworkers at Auld & White by his abilities and professionalism. Nathan's message to businesses considering such employment: "Cast your concerns aside. It has been one of the best decisions we have made."

Earlier this year, Connectable and JAX Chamber launched the 20 in 20 campaign to encourage 20 Chamber members to hire people of all abilities. During National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October, JAX Chamber highlighted the 20 in 20 campaign and member business who are involved. Find inspiration in these short vignettes featuring businesses and business leaders who are opening opportunities in Northeast Florida.

Miller Electric Brings People of All Abilities off the Sidelines to Work

“When businesses can be flexible and adaptable in bringing people off the sidelines to work, we all win as a community.” ~ Henry Brown, CEO of Miller Electric Company and JAX Chamber Chair.

We applaud the efforts of our business leaders who are making Northeast Florida a place of opportunity for people of all abilities, and celebrate our 20 in 20 partnership with JAX Chamber!

Earlier this year, Connectable and JAX Chamber launched the 20 in 20 campaign to encourage 20 Chamber members to hire people of all abilities. During National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October, JAX Chamber highlighted the 20 in 20 campaign and member business who are involved. Find inspiration in these short vignettes featuring businesses and business leaders who are opening opportunities in Northeast Florida.

JAX Chamber Celebrates 20 in 20 Campaign During National Disability Awareness Employment Month

Earlier this year, Connectable and JAX Chamber launched the 20 in 20 campaign to encourage 20 Chamber members to hire people of all abilities. During National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October, JAX Chamber highlighted the 20 in 20 campaign and member business who are involved. Find inspiration in these short vignettes featuring businesses and business leaders who are opening opportunities in Northeast Florida.

20 in 20 | JAX Chamber

Daniel Davis, CEO of JAX Chamber surprises Megan Bell with a housewarming gift. Together they share why JAX Chamber's commitment to opening opportunities for employees of all abilities.

VyStar Credit Union

VyStar Credit Union was inspired at one of the The Arc Jacksonville's events. Brian Wolfburg, CEO of VyStar believes “It is very important to VyStar that every individual has the opportunity to work and earn an income in an organization in Northeast Florida." Learn more about Robbie's role at VyStar and enjoy a peak into their impressive new headquarters.

Auld & White Constructors

Nathan Marty, CEO of Auld & White Constructors, made the pledge to employ an individual with intellectual differences as a part of the 20 in 20 campaign. This decision came full circle when Auld & White hired a young man from North Florida School of Special Education (NFSSE). While building the campus expansion, Auld & White team members met many of the NFSSE students and were inspired by their unique abilities. Today, Ben is making an impact and continues to impress his coworkers at Auld & White by his abilities and professionalism. Nathan's message to businesses considering such employment: "Cast your concerns aside. It has been one of the best decisions we have made."

Miller Electric

“When businesses can be flexible and adaptable in bringing people off the sidelines to work, we all win as a community.” ~ Henry Brown, CEO of Miller Electric Company and JAX Chamber Chair.

We applaud the efforts of our business leaders who are making Northeast Florida a place of opportunity for people of all abilities, and celebrate our 20 in 20 partnership with JAX Chamber!