Making Special Needs Employment a Priority

The job market right now is tough for everyone. But it can be even tougher for those with special needs. According to the Department of Labor, the unemployment rate for disabled persons is 14 percent, compared with 9 percent for those without special needs. Despite these hard times, Dallas-based Alliance Data, a marketing solutions firm, is committed to employing those with disabilities.

To this end, the firm has continued its eight-year partnership with Special Care and Career Services (SCCS), an organization that provides supported employment services for families and adults with cognitive disabilities. The firm has already hired two employees through SCCS and recently hired a third. Warren Ducotey and David Garcia (pictured below), veterans of the program, have been with Alliance for over five years each, working in maintenance and custodial services.

“Warren and David are incredibly loyal, hardworking employees, and we’re very fortunate to have them on our team,” said Dwayne Tucker, VP of human resources. “Without a doubt, our associates benefit from their presence here every day through their enthusiasm, dedication and 'can-do' attitude.  Supporting their pursuit to independence and self-sufficiency is a priceless gift.”