Community Initiatives

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Hire the Ability Ambassadors™ to Make Your Organization More Inclusive

The Ability Ambassadors can help your organization become more diverse and inclusive. Let us demonstrate the benefits of hiring individuals with intellectual disabilities (I/DD).

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Ability Ambassadors For Businesses

Receive a tailored report for internal use with recommendations to improve policies, and company branding on disability-inclusion. Provide targeted strategies to attract and retain employees with disabilities, identify entry-level positions that would be a good fit for candidates, and how to achieve a high level of job satisfaction in your workplace.

Ability Ambassadors For Health Care Providers

Receive a tailored report for your internal use, new strategies to attract and retain employees with disabilities, identify non-patient service roles that are a good-fit for entry level positions, and provide your organization with trusted resources to reach new job seekers.

Ability Ambassadors For Educators

A customized “Educator Disability- Inclusion Tool Kit” with materials and educational plans for initiating discussions within schools and classrooms; and a “School Administrators Disability-Inclusion Tool Kit” with key strategies to attract new candidates with disabilities so as to satisfy your staffing needs, and provide low-cost accommodations to maximize employee retention from school year to school year.

Ability Ambassadors For Non-Profits

Receive a tailored report for internal use with recommendations to improve disability-inclusion policies, and branding that will attract employees, volunteers, and community partners. Differentiate roles and staffing needs within the organizations that would be a “good-fit” for individuals with disabilities. Take advantage of the trusted resources to address your fundraising, technology, and leadership training needs.

Why hire individuals with intellectual disabilities (I/DD)?

  • Established Advocacy and Policy Change:

    Serving the greater Dane County area, we have a long history of disability advocacy, leading to policy changes that empower individuals with intellectual disabilities (I/DD) to choose their own neighborhoods and workplaces.

  • Strong Supported Employment System:

    Over 1,200 employees with I/DD are supported by 18 employment providers and 12 high schools, ensuring a solid support network for both employees and businesses.

  • Diverse Business Engagement:

    More than 1,000 businesses in Dane County, Wisconsin already employ people with I/DD, showcasing a well-established and growing trend in the local business community.

  • Growing National Employment Rates:

    In 2023, the employment rate for individuals with disabilities reached 22% in the U.S., reflecting a positive national trend toward inclusion that local businesses can contribute to.

  • Retention and Satisfaction:

    Hiring individuals with disabilities promotes employee satisfaction, which is directly tied to improved retention rates, reducing turnover and related costs.

  • Fostering Neurodiversity:

    Building neurodiversity through hiring individuals with I/DD can create more innovative, inclusive, and adaptable workplaces, benefiting both employees and the business.

  • High Incidence of Invisible Disabilities:

    80% of workers with disabilities have an invisible disability, meaning they may not require significant accommodations while still bringing valuable skills and perspectives to the workforce.

  • Community and Brand Value:

    Being an inclusive employer enhances your reputation in the community, building goodwill and aligning with corporate social responsibility goals.

Ability Ambassadors enjoying food and drink together
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Book Now for 2025!

Meet Our Ability Ambassadors™

Egan Ahern

Egan Ahern

Egan is a dynamic individual with a diverse range of interests and experiences. As a college graduate with a degree in communication, Egan is focused on messaging and media. Actively involved in the community, Egan works at the Fluno Center in food service where he ensures top-notch hospitality, and volunteers at the Treffert Center supporting individuals with Autism. Egan is also a sports fanatic and is the manager for the Wisconsin Men’s Hockey Team.

Maria Wolk Bresnahan

Maria Wolk Bresnahan is a shining example of a strong, independent woman who radiates warmth and positivity. She shows her commitment to the values of acceptance and inclusion through her role as a preschool teacher. With eight years of teaching experience, Maria brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to her students, valuing their unique voices and perspectives. Maria is married and a proud cat owner; she lives a healthy and independent lifestyle, and enjoys the new recent role of being an aunt.

Maria Bresnahan
Sam Dess

Sam Dess

Sam Dess grew up in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin and is a shining example of dedication to education and inclusivity. His acceptance into college reflects his commitment to furthering his knowledge and skills. With the completion of a Para-professional educator certificate, he’s well-equipped to support and nurture young learners, as evidenced by his work in a preschool. By living on his own, he showcases his ability to thrive independently with supports. As an Ability Ambassador, he passionately advocates for inclusion, striving to create a world where everyone’s unique abilities are recognized and valued.

Rame Diamond

Rame Diamond is a truly kind-hearted and positive individual, making it easy for anyone to engage in meaningful conversations with them. His unwavering desire to make the world a better place is evident in everything he does, but especially in his role at work, helping with children in a preschool. Rame is loyal to his friends, celebrating diversity and championing inclusion. Rame Diamond’s presence in the world is an embodiment of kindness, positivity, and a commitment to fostering a more inclusive and harmonious society.

Rame Diamond
Michael Hwang

Michael Hwang

Michael Hwang, raised in both US and South Korean cultures, brings a unique perspective enriched by his experiences, adding depth and diversity to his outlook on life. Focused on modern job skills in college, he combines his love for learning and bilingual capabilities as a dedicated library page, striving to be detail-oriented and tech-savvy while actively engaging with the community.

George Keenan

George Keenan is a vibrant and outgoing individual known for his infectious sense of humor and extroverted nature. He finds his ultimate sense of freedom when he’s out riding his bike, relishing the open road and the independence it brings. As a college graduate with a communications degree, he’s a testament to the power of effective communication in building connections. Born in Geneva, Illinois, he carries a piece of his hometown with him as he continues to explore life with enthusiasm and a hearty laugh.

George Keenan
Emily Krueger

Emily Krueger

Emily Krueger, a dedicated educator at Madison Public Schools, radiates positivity, fostering laughter and warmth with her outgoing nature and humor. Beyond her work, she passionately advocates for disability rights, contributing to a more inclusive society. Emily is a UW-Whitewater graduate from Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Tyler Newberry

Tyler Newberry is not just a business owner, but also a beacon of kindness, outgoing spirit, and unwavering bravery. His infectious sense of humor and storytelling prowess light up any room he enters, making him a natural storyteller. Tyler’s loyalty to his friends is unmatched, as he stands by them through thick and thin. Beyond his business pursuits, he’s on a mission to promote inclusion, advocating for a more diverse and accepting world. With a penchant for telling it like it is, he’s a straight shooter who values honesty in his interactions. Tyler’s networking skills are exceptional, allowing him to connect people and ideas, furthering his mission of creating a more inclusive and united community.

Tyler Newberry
Taylor Petrusky

Taylor Petrusky

Taylor Petrusky is a compassionate and dedicated individual with a heart for making a difference in the lives of children. She grew up in Plainfield, Wisconsin, and carries the values of loyalty and commitment to her friends and community. Taylor’s independence, living on her own, reflects her strength and determination. As a college graduate, she brings her education and knowledge to her work in after-school programs, where she actively promotes accessibility and inclusion.

Emily Savage

Emily Savage is a remarkable individual whose passion for disability advocacy shines through her public speaking abilities. She dedicates her time to mentoring high school students with disabilities, providing guidance and inspiration for their journeys. She also promotes disability and accessibility inclusion in the community using her outgoing nature and desire for creating meaningful connections with others. Her enthusiasm for making a positive impact in her community is clear and her strength for talking brings people together to embrace a more inclusive and compassionate world.

Emily Savage
Kaethe Sigelko

Kaethe Sigelko

Kaethe Sigelko is a vibrant and charismatic individual who brings humor and positivity into every aspect of her life. Her outgoing personality and commitment to advocating for people with disabilities makes her a powerful public speaker on the subject of inclusion. As a college graduate, she carries her education into her role at a hospital, where she undoubtedly makes a positive impact. Kaethe is a shining example of how one person’s energy and dedication can make a significant difference in the lives of others, promoting a more inclusive and harmonious society.

Abigail Tessmann

Abigail Tessmann is a remarkable individual whose life is defined by her commitment to disability advocacy, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to fostering an inclusive community. As a college graduate, she brings her education and passion to her work. Her ability to thrive while living independently showcases her strength and determination. Beyond her business endeavors, Abigail generously volunteers her time on community boards, where she passionately represents the cause of inclusion. Abigail is a shining example of how one person can make a significant and positive impact on the lives of others while championing a more inclusive and diverse world.

Abigail Tessmann

Book the Ability Ambassadors™

Want the Ability Ambassadors to come to your business or event? Fill out the contact form below.

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Contact Us

Program Coordinator:
(608) 219-1603
Director:
(608) 219-7952‬
Email Us

2411 Monroe Street
Madison, WI 53711

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