Celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month: Nutley Kia and The Phoenix Center’s Commitment to Workplace Inclusion

October marks National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time to recognize the important role people with disabilities play in a diverse and inclusive workforce. At Nutley Kia, we’re proud to champion this cause through our ongoing partnership with The Phoenix Center (TPC), a local school dedicated to preparing students with disabilities for success in the workplace and beyond.

 Building an Inclusive Workforce with The Phoenix Center

Over the years, Nutley Kia has embraced the opportunity to employ students from The Phoenix Center as interns during their junior and senior years. These students work part-time with the guidance of a job coach, gaining valuable hands-on experience in a supportive environment. This partnership not only offers students a chance to learn and grow but also enriches the workplace culture at Nutley Kia.

Recently, Nutley Kia achieved a new milestone by hiring Jonathan, a former TPC student and intern who graduated in June. Jonathan is Nutley Kia’s first post-graduate hire from the program, and his contributions exemplify the value of an inclusive workplace.

 A Statement from James Russomano, Nutley Kia’s Dealer Principal

“Today, The Phoenix Center asked for a picture with Anne, myself, and Jonathan to celebrate this momentous occasion. Over the past many years, we have employed interns from TPC during their junior and senior years who worked a few hours per week at the dealership with a job coach. Jonathan is our first post-graduate hire, and we are incredibly excited,” says James Russomano, Nutley Kia’s Owner, Dealer Principal.

This partnership has had a positive impact on both the students and Nutley Kia employees. By creating opportunities for people with disabilities, we help foster a workplace culture that values inclusion, teamwork, and growth for all.

 The Benefits of Workplace Inclusion

Creating an inclusive workplace benefits everyone. According to a report on workplace inclusion from NJB Magazine, fostering an environment where people with diverse abilities can thrive leads to stronger teams, greater employee satisfaction, and improved business outcomes. Inclusive workplaces encourage innovation, creativity, and diverse perspectives, all of which contribute to a thriving company culture.

At Nutley Kia, we’re committed to providing equal opportunities and breaking down barriers to employment for individuals with disabilities. Our partnership with The Phoenix Center is just one way we show that commitment, and we hope to continue this relationship for years to come.

 Looking Ahead

As we celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we take pride in the progress we’ve made and look forward to building a more inclusive future. Nutley Kia believes in the power of diversity and inclusion to create stronger communities and workplaces, and we’re honored to be part of the journey for students like Jonathan.

We encourage other businesses to join us in creating inclusive opportunities for individuals with disabilities and making workplace diversity a reality, not just during NDEAM, but every day of the year.

About The Phoenix Center

The Phoenix Center is an accredited, not-for-profit school serving the educational, behavioral and therapeutic needs of students ages 5-21 with autism, multiple disabilities, behavioral and intellectual disabilities. Our customized evidence-based programs— developed for each student—are anchored by a hands-on, real-life, community-based instruction model.

About Nutley Auto Kia

Nutley Auto Kia is a family owned and operated franchised automotive dealership offering you the convenience of having all departments- Parts, Sales and Service – on- site at one location at 66 Washington Avenue in Nutley.

Nutley Auto Kia offers an exciting array of new Kia models, a huge selection of Certified Pre-Owned vehicles (all makes and models). We offer the most competitive pricing, and our finance team will help find the lowest loan and lease rates.

We also offer a fully trained Parts and Service Department that is focused on addressing your concerns as quickly, and as cost-effectively, as possible. We also have a fully functional tire center offering competitive pricing on tires and maintenance services. We are truly a one-stop shop.

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