SourceAmerica Presents Disability Employment Gains to National Council on Disability
SourceAmerica presented data to the National Council on Disability (NCD) highlighting the AbilityOne® Program's positive impact on the employment of over 37,000 individuals with disabilities annually. The program offers long-term careers and promotes independence.
VIENNA, Va. – SourceAmerica® presented to the National Council on Disability (NCD) a presentation and written submission emphasizing the AbilityOne® Program's measurable, positive impact on the lives of tens of thousands of people with disabilities each year. The program complements federal initiatives aimed at fostering personal and economic independence for individuals with disabilities.
Data from SourceAmerica showed employment growth within the AbilityOne Program, increasing from 32,652 to 37,407 individuals between 2022 and 2025. During this period, the average wage rose from $16.43 to $19.68 per hour. Approximately 6,000 employees transitioned from AbilityOne jobs to community employment, and 8,800 promotions occurred.
"This growth occurred during a period marked by labor shortages, post-pandemic disruption, and wage competition from the commercial sector," said SourceAmerica President and CEO Richard Belden. "These are conditions that have typically led to the loss of jobs for people with disabilities. The data demonstrates that, rather than insulating workers from market realities, the AbilityOne Program operates within them and still delivers measurable employment and wage growth."
SourceAmerica also presented recent changes within the AbilityOne Program aligned with strategic initiatives and federal regulations, including updated information on the phase-out of 14(c) certificates. The program has provided long-term jobs for people with disabilities for over 85 years while supporting the federal government.