July 09, 2021 | Press Release.pdf

SUMMERVILLE, SC – People with disabilities are often unemployed or underemployed. Nonprofits like Community Options work to change that. Community Options provides employment supports that help people acquire necessary skills and gain and maintain employment.

Each person’s employment journey is different; some find work immediately, while others need more time to learn skill and build a resume through volunteer experiences. Rickie Meyers received job preparation support from Community Options for nearly six years. This May, he found employment at the Piggly Wiggly, a local grocery store, in Summerville, South Carolina. Ricky was quickly recognized by his coworkers and customers for his work ethic.

“Rickie is incredibly polite and well-mannered. He is a pleasure to work with and does a great job with our customers,” said Bill Jones, General Manager of the Piggly Wiggly. “We pride ourselves on hiring people with disabilities and recognize the positive affect it has on the community.”

Rickie is one of 200 people who receive employment supports from Community Options in South Carolina. Employment specialists train people on business skills, resume building, interviewing, and soft skills. Once employed, on-site support is provided to ensure retention.

“I love working and being independent,” said Rickie. “Most of all, I love helping others.”

Through Community Options, people with disabilities develop a customized plan that prepares them for future employment. Employment specialists focus on each participant’s skills and goals to help them find the perfect job.

Community Options is a national nonprofit that provides housing and employment supports for people with disabilities. In South Carolina, Community Options supports 300 people with disabilities through residential, employment, and day services. Nationally, the organization supports 5,000 people across 10 states.

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About Community Options, Inc.:

For over 30 years, Community Options has developed housing and employment supports for people with disabilities – serving thousands of people from over 40 offices across 10 states. Community Options provides advocacy assistance to empower people with disabilities because all people – regardless of ability level – should live and work in the community with dignity, choice and self-determination. For more information please visit our website: www.comop.org and to follow along with the #AllItTakes campaign, search #AllItTakes on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.