IRI and Walgreens Collaborate to Enhance Employment Opportunities for People with Disabilities
Integrated Resources Institute (IRI) is proud to announce its state-wide partnership with Walgreens and its REDI Program to advance the employment goals of individuals with disabilities. Through this collaboration, IRI and Walgreens aim to provide comprehensive training and support, empowering people to secure fulfilling employment opportunities.
The REDI Program, spearheaded by Walgreens, is dedicated to working with community organizations to offer specialized training to individuals with disabilities and their Employment Coaches. This training focuses on in-store retail and customer service skills, preparing participants for various positions within Walgreens stores nationwide. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are not only recommended for available positions within Walgreens but also granted the opportunity to bypass certain assessments and apply for jobs in their desired location.
Natalie Pollett, the Area Field Disability Specialist at Walgreens, provided insight regarding the recent partnership, stating: “The partnership with Integrated Resources Institute and our local Walgreens stores has been an exciting development for us, and one that we hope to continue to strengthen. One thing we appreciate about IRI is their intentional delivery of high-quality job coaching services to each of their REDI trainees. That individualized 1:1 job coach support aligns perfectly with the way the REDI program is designed to provide a specialized hands-on learning opportunity that candidates can use to increase their confidence, skillset, and edge in the hiring process.”
Moreover, REDI Program participants can enhance their training by enrolling in the DDS-sponsored Paid Internship Program (PIP). This innovative program ensures that interns receive fair compensation, enabling them to earn a comparable hourly wage in their respective positions at Walgreens. The inclusion of the PIP not only enhances the training experience but also underscores the commitment of IRI and Walgreens to fostering equitable employment practices.
CEO, Suad Bisogno, stated, “We are thrilled to partner with Walgreens in our shared mission to enhance employment opportunities for the people we support. The process is seamless and our collaboration with Walgreens has allowed our employment coaches to be efficiently trained to meet job expectations, ensuring optimal support for both Walgreens and the people we serve.”
By joining forces with Walgreens, IRI reaffirms its commitment to fostering equality and accessibility in the workplace. Together, we strive to break down barriers and create a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive.
For more information about Integrated Resources Institute and its initiatives, visit www.irioc.org
Integrated Resources Institute (IRI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the full inclusion of persons with disabilities into their community.
For more information or for inquiries about partnering with IRI, please contact:
Luke Sakamoto
Operations Manager
(949) 232-1172
Luke@irioc.org
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