Champlain Community Services (CCS), a VBSR member nonprofit based in Colchester, recently advanced to the short-list for the prestigious international Zero Project Award 2021, recognizing innovative practices and policies in employment for people with disabilities. Each year, the Zero Project finds and shares Innovative Practices and Policies that help improve the lives of persons with disabilities.

CCS was nominated for its Way2Work Employment Continuum which offers employment support from pre-vocational skills building through retirement age. Way2Work emphasizes a highly individualized approach that helps Vermonters with  intellectual disabilities forge successful careers – or launch successful businesses – in the competitive economy.

Way2Work partners with Vermont employers in all sectors of the economy to help them meet their staffing, social justice, and workplace diversity goals. Contact Michelle Paya, Employment Director, at mpaya@ccs-vt.org or 802.655.0511 x116 to learn how you can partner with Way2Work.

One of 475 practices or policies nominated for 2021’s award, CCS is one of 178 worldwide to make the sort list, and one of only 15 from the United States to be so recognized. About 75 will be chosen for a Zero Project Award, and be included in the annual Zero Project Report and given speaking roles at the Conference to share their important and impactful work which supports employment for people with disabilities.

The Zero Project was initiated by the Essl Foundation in 2008 and focuses on the rights of persons with disabilities globally. It is a platform where the most innovative and effective solutions to problems that persons with disabilities face, are shared. Its mission is to support the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD) and to work for a world without barriers.