Empowering People. Strengthening Community.
Every Person. Every Ability. Every Opportunity.
For 50 years we have provided those in our community with developmental disabilities employment services, day services, transportation, and other services customized to their specific needs.
We match our dedicated individuals with local business employment opportunities. The community benefits from community employment providing diversity and enrichment to the community, promoting equal opportunity within the community, and decreasing dependency on public funding.
We do all this while providing the necessary reasonable accommodations to individuals in accordance with the ADA guidelines.
Ability Works History
In 1974 Double S Industries of Erie Co., Inc was established. Historically we engaged in traditional shelter workshop functions enabling individuals with disabilities to earn wages.
In 2008 we added the Document Management and the Sign shop to provide employment opportunities and also began offering Day Services and Transportation.
In 2013 we announced our new name and vision, Ability Works Inc.
As Sheltered-based day-services and workshops are moving towards community-based integrated services, we found ourselves transitioning our staff and program in 2017, eventually getting rid of our workshop.
Today, our focus is on helping individuals find full community inclusion. All services are community-based. Our Day Programs offer outings to events, programs, classes, and more. And our employment services continue to help individuals find a job that best fits their needs.
Mission
Supporting Independence, Inclusion, and Employment.
Vision
To provide the highest quality support opportunities that are respectful of and responsive to each individual person’s preferences, needs, and values.
Memberships & Affiliations
We are active members of each of the following professional and community organizations: Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities International (CARF), Ohio Provider Resource Association (OPRA), American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR). APSE Employment First Employment for All, Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD), Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD), Erie County Chamber of Commerce (ECCOC, Lorain County Chamber of Commerce, and Northcoast Rotary. Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO), and Erie County Regional Planning on Transportation.
Our Credentials