A new city program designed to create employment opportunities for people with disabilities has achieved its first success, with one participant being hired as a full-time city employee after completing an internship.
The Pathways to Public Service program, launched by the City of Albuquerque in partnership with LSG & Associates Inc., provides adults with disabilities a 12-week paid volunteer rotation to explore various city departments, followed by a two-year internship placement.
Emilia, one of the program’s first participants, completed her internship and was hired as a city employee in Parking Services. City Hall employees and visitors, including Mayor Tim Keller, have praised her work improving parking facilities, according to the city.
“I have always believed in giving everyone a fair chance and allowing them to prove themselves with their merit, and Emelia has proved it day in and day out with hard work and pride in her work,” said Emilio Pinon, a city supervisor with Parking Services. “I feel blessed to be part of this program and see the success we are having.”
The program was developed following a City Council resolution sponsored by Councilor Klarissa Peña to support employment opportunities for people with disabilities. LSG & Associates Inc., which operates under contract with New Mexico’s Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, runs the program.
Two additional participants are beginning internships at the city’s Balloon Museum, according to the city.
“The Pathways to Public Service Program is deeply personal to me, as I have seen firsthand the challenges my brother faces as a person with disabilities,” said Peña, City Council Vice President. “The launch of the City’s inclusive hiring program is a momentous step towards a more equitable Albuquerque.”
Erin White-Canales, executive director of LSG & Associates Inc., said the collaboration helps participants find careers rather than just jobs.
“This collaboration has been beneficial in supporting participants in attaining not just a job, but a career, leaving them feeling like they are a contributing member to their community,” White-Canales said.
Pinon has been sharing the program as a model with other city departments, according to the city.