Fresh Abilities sees first round of employees advance to secure other jobs

When you order a salad from Fresh Abilities, it isn’t just another meal. It’s becoming a path to permanent employment for the restaurant staff.

Located in Downtown Springfield’s COhatch – The Market and launched just over a year ago, Fresh Abilities was established to create a pipeline for workers interested in the food service industry. And despite setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic, two employees of Fresh Abilities have been placed in permanent positions: first with Schuler’s Bakery and most recently Wendy’s.

“It’s really the beginning of the pathway and getting first-hand, real-world experience,” says Bridget Doane, director of development with The Abilities Connection (TAC) Industries. “The intent of Fresh Abilities is for (employees) to gain experience and evaluate if they want to continue in food service. If so, they work with local partners to find job availability in local restaurants.”

TAC Industries is an organization in Springfield that employs, connects and care for adults with disabilities.

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