New York State has a Preferred Source Program under the NYS finance law Section 162, that supports social and economic goals for workers with disabilities by partnering with government agencies. A successful example of this is the New York State Industries for the Disabled (NYSID), a not-for-profit that has been finding jobs for workers with disabilities for 40 years. Since 2009 NYSID has always started programs and services specifically for veterans. All projects must first be approved and demonstrate specific form, function, and utility by listing all project activities, following imaging guidelines, and having a set timeframe. It is also important to state that NYSID has strict ethical standards in order to protect members, and all organizations working with them must also be committed to this. In 2014 alone NYSID helped 6,819 people with disabilities find jobs and earn $55.3 million in wages.
The benefits that workers receive from NYSID is tremendous and the ability to work holds different meaning for everyone. Here are a few examples of how the workers are effected:
- Gain self-esteem
- Learn marketable skills
- Ability to gain financial independence
- Socialization
- Happiness
- Motivation
The projects created through NYSID also benefit NY State and the government agencies participating. Being a shared service give you access to grants to help fund the projects. This allows for the agencies to get a lot of work accomplished without needing to spend a lot of money. NY benefits because there is then a reduction in public assistance as disabled workers become economically independent. This also results in an increase of government tax revenues from employed vs. dependent individuals.
NYSID is a great organization and Biel’s is proud to be associated with them. If you would like to learn more about the projects or get involved you can look at their website here (http://www.nysid.org/index.cfm).