Westport Launches 'Spring Into Employment' Initiative

The following announcement is from the Westport Department of Human Services:

WESTPORT, CT — Westport's Commission on People with Disabilities, a First Selectwoman-appointed body staffed by Westport's Human Services Department, is proud to announce their latest campaign to Spring into Employment by encouraging residents, businesses, employment support providers, and disability advocates to continue opening doors to inclusive employment.

E4E's mission is to encourage and support businesses in the recruitment, hiring, and advancement of people with disabilities in the workplace. The collaboration between the Town of Westport's Department of Human Services, the Commission on People with Disabilities, and the local business community, was inspired by the need for more meaningful employment opportunities for residents with disabilities and the research highlighting the benefits of hiring people with disabilities.

Commission member Joe Anastasi states, "Many Westport businesses already enjoy the benefits of employing people with disabilities. Our employees come to work on time and with enthusiasm, resulting in a more upbeat work culture and greater consumer loyalty."

A few of Westport's "Employment Champions" include businesses like MoCA, The Residence, Lululemon, Nomade Restaurant, Le Rouge Chocolates, Fleet Feet, Michael's Craft Shop, the Westport Center for Senior Activities, the Westport Book Shop, and The Porch at Christie's. The Commission hopes that this is just the beginning. Commissioners say businesses can further their talent pool by posting a position, requesting a consult, or approving all future job openings for inclusion on the E4E site by contacting Human Services at 203-341-1050 or humansrv@westportct.gov.

According to Human Services Director Elaine Daignault, "Thanks to people like Joe and other members of the Commission, we have more available positions on the site than ever before. The businesses committed to creating a more inclusive workforce should be celebrated and emulated across Town."

Since E4E's inception in March of 2022, the online employment gateway www.westportct.gov/e4e has provided a platform to support and encourage workforce development by offering a dedicated space for individuals with disabilities to explore employment opportunities and learn about employment support services. At the same time, employers can expand their pool of applicants by posting available positions or seeking information on enhancing inclusivity in their businesses.

Anastasi continued, "There is a surplus of qualified, local workers with disabilities seeking employment. We find that these individuals thrive in workplaces that take the time to get to know them, provide training opportunities, and ultimately come to value their unique contributions."

Spring into Employment is meant to invite local employers to offer competitive and inclusive employment opportunities in Westport, knowing that the Commission on People with Disabilities is available to consult and support their efforts.

For more information on E4E, contact Westport Human Services or the Commission on People with Disabilities at 203 341-1050 or humansrv@westportct.gov or copwd@westportct.gov.