HIRE OUR TALENT
Hiring that
strengthens your workforce
Dependable, productive employees
For nearly 50 years, Avenues to Independence has partnered with Chicago-area businesses to create job opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through these relationships, employers gain reliable, motivated employees, while building a more inclusive and engaged workplace.
Well-matched workers
We match business needs with the strengths of workers with disabilities. Our job seekers range from entry-level to advanced, skilled workers – all with exemplary safety and attendance records. When the fit is right, our hires have staying power. Many have succeeded in their roles for years.
Pre-screening for success
Our job placement services ensure workers are truly ready for employment. Each job seeker completes comprehensive training in goal setting, time management, communication, and workplace etiquette. We evaluate readiness and motivation carefully, so when we place someone, they’re set up to succeed.
Cost savings and reduced turnover
When you hire through Avenues to Independence, you may benefit from real cost savings. We can help determine your eligibility for the Work Opportunity Tax Credit which offers tax benefits for hiring workers with disabilities. Additionally, our employees have strong attendance records and genuine commitment to their work. Combined with our ongoing job coaching and support, this means less time and money spent on recruiting and training new employees.
Employer perspectives
Hiring Avenues workers was a good business decision. They freed up other workers’ time, and their great work ethic uplifts the entire office.

Matthew Coyne
E.J. Coyne & Company Insurance
Ann Marie, who has been with us at Jewel-Osco for 32 years, demonstrates exceptional reliability, a strong work ethic, and remarkable attentiveness. She truly loves her job, which is reflected in her dedication and performance. It is important for companies to recognize that employing individuals with disabilities is not only a socially responsible decision, but also a sound business strategy.

Mark Walker
Jewel-Osco
Avenues to Independence does a tremendous job helping adults with disabilities take steps towards meaningful employment. Having several members of the Avenues team on the Gerry’s Cafe team has been a huge benefit for us as Avenues has really prepared the team to do a great job in the workforce.

John Will
Gerry’s Cafe
Community employers
Many thanks to the local businesses that give our participants the opportunity to build independence through meaningful work.














Community employment in action
See how Avenues’ own David K. has found success and stability at Culver’s.