HONOLULU – Mayor Rick Blangiardi is pleased to announce that the Department of Community Services (DCS), WorkHawaiʻi Division is embarking on a new partnership with Abilities Unlimited, a non-profit organization dedicated to building inclusive communities that empower individuals with disabilities.
Abilities Unlimited will be establishing a presence at the Dole Cannery Office Building at 680 Iwilei Road, colocated with the WorkHawaiʻi Division. Abilities Unlimited and WorkHawaiʻi will be offering an open house at the Dole Cannery Office Building, Suite 600 on Thursday, October 3, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. which will be open to the public.
The open house will present an opportunity for individuals to explore the new space and resources, meet with staff, and learn about the new Practical Assessment Exploration System (PAES) at Abilities Unlimited. PAES allows participants to engage in various work-related tasks, building essential job skills while providing trainers with valuable insights into their strengths and areas for improvement. This system simulates real-world work environments, equipping participants with practical experience and preparing them for future employment opportunities.
“With more than 40 years of employment training and job development experience, Abilities Unlimited is creating a holistic approach to employment for both youth and adults with disabilities,” said Melissa Gerber, Director of Workforce Development & Strategic Partners for Abilities Unlimited. “We are excited about connecting with innovative partners, such as the WorkHawaiʻi Division, to create a dynamic PAES Lab training center for a diverse population of individuals with work barriers.”
For more information on WorkHawaiʻi services, program eligibility, enrollment, and other co-located partners, call WorkHawaiʻi at (808) 768-5703 or fill out the online WorkHawaiʻi Program Interest Form.
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About the DCS – WorkHawaiʻi Division
The WorkHawaiʻi mission is to develop a quality workforce for Honolulu’s businesses and empower individuals to meet employers’ current and future needs so that our local economy continues to grow. Services include:
- No-cost Hiring Events.
- GED preparation and work experience for youth and adults.
- Short-term rental subsidies for working individuals.
- Vocational training tuition assistance.
- Direct outreach to long-term unhoused and unemployed individuals.
The WorkHawaiʻi-American Job Center Hawaiʻi is supported 95% in federal funds in the amount of $12,626,632.60, and 5% in non-federal funds in the amount of $665,032.00. For more information on programs and other resources, call WorkHawaiʻi at (808) 768-5703 or complete the online WorkHawaiʻi Program Interest Form.