Community Impact

Center of Kindness plays a pivotal role in positively impacting the community, specifically addressing the pressing issue of unemployment among individuals with Intellectual Developmental Disabilities (IDD) in Nevada. Our programs and initiatives extend beyond mere employment services to actively contribute to the overall social and economic well-being of the region. Nevada faces significant challenges in tackling high unemployment rates, particularly evident in the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data, where it held the highest unemployment rate in the nation. Center of Kindness is committed to addressing this issue by focusing on reducing the unemployment disparity experienced by individuals with IDD.

Specialized Supported Employment Services: By implementing evidence-based practices like the Integrated Competitive Employment model, Center of Kindness aims to enhance workforce integration and job stability for individuals with IDD.

Tailored Job Coaching and Training: We provide personalized job coaching, vocational training, and job placement assistance, empowering individuals with IDD to secure competitive employment, contributing directly to the state’s workforce.

Collaboration and Advocacy: We collaborate with community stakeholders, employers, and government agencies to advocate for inclusive hiring practices, fostering a more inclusive and diverse workforce in Nevada.

Impact Beyond Employment: Beyond the direct impact on reducing unemployment rates, the Center of Kindness seeks to foster a more inclusive society by empowering individuals with IDD. As these individuals secure meaningful employment and become more integrated into the workforce, they contribute their unique skills and perspectives to Nevadas social fabric, enriching the community at large.

Collaborative Workshops and Events: Center of Kindness actively partners with key stakeholders such as EmployNV, Vocational Rehabilitation, and Nevada Local Unions to foster meaningful collaborations in facilitating On-the-Job Training (OJT) and Apprenticeship programs. These alliances enable us to offer invaluable apprenticeship opportunities, promoting skill development and employment pathways through these comprehensive programs.

Additionally, our organization works hand-in-hand with local businesses, educational institutions, and community centers to orchestrate a series of inclusive workshops and events. These sessions are meticulously designed to champion understanding, foster acceptance, and drive the seamless integration of individuals with diverse abilities into our community. Through these collaborative initiatives, our overarching goal is to cultivate an inclusive, supportive, and harmonious environment that benefits everyone involved.

Volunteer and Peer Support Programs: Our organization facilitates volunteer and peer support programs, inviting community members to participate in various capacities. Volunteers engage in mentoring, job coaching, or simply offering companionship and support to individuals with IDD. This program not only enriches the lives of those we serve but also provides a platform for community members to actively engage and learn from one another.

Community Outreach Activities: Center of Kindness conducts outreach activities aimed at building bridges between individuals with IDD and the broader community. These activities include open houses, community fairs, and informational sessions that foster dialogue, raise awareness, and encourage active participation and collaboration among community members.

Inclusive Community Events: We organize inclusive events that encourage participation from individuals with IDD and the broader community. These events, such as job fairs, skill-sharing workshops, and social gatherings, provide opportunities for meaningful interactions, skill development, and networking, fostering a sense of

belonging and unity among all participants.