Partner Spotlight: Towards Employment and Acor Join Hands for Success

Navigating the path to sustainable employment, especially for individuals facing barriers, requires dedication and collaborative effort. Towards Employment, a beacon of hope in Northeast Ohio's workforce development landscape, and Acor, a steadfast advocate for second chances and meaningful employment, have forged a powerful partnership aimed at transforming lives and strengthening communities.

Towards Employment stands as a pillar of support, championing the potential of every individual to thrive in a rewarding career. For over 40 years, they have been empowering individuals to achieve self-sufficiency through employment, providing comprehensive support, skill development, and fostering strong employer partnerships. With a mission to create an equitable and inclusive workforce, Towards Employment envisions a dynamic world of work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

At the heart of Towards Employment's success lies their Career Pathway Model, meticulously designed to address individual needs while meeting the demands of the labor market. This model focuses on individual empowerment, employer engagement, and career advancement, ensuring that each participant receives tailored support and guidance to navigate their unique journey towards meaningful employment.

In 2023 alone, Towards Employment made a profound impact, serving 1,770 individuals at varying stages of their career pathway. Through credentialed training, paid on-the-job opportunities, and personalized coaching, 509 individuals, including 226 with justice involvement, were successfully placed into employment. Notably, the average starting wage for Towards Employment participants exceeded Ohio's minimum wage by $4.50, reflecting the organization's commitment to fostering economic stability and prosperity.

Towards Employment's holistic approach extends beyond job readiness training, providing vital supportive services to address barriers such as transportation, tools, uniforms, and legal assistance. By empowering individuals with the skills, resources, and support they need to succeed, Towards Employment not only changes lives but also advances businesses and strengthens communities.

Acor, a leading orthopedic product manufacturer headquartered in Cleveland, shares Towards Employment's vision of creating opportunities for individuals to thrive. Under the leadership of Tim Wenzel, Vice President of Manufacturing & Logistics, Acor has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to giving individuals second chances and facilitating their integration into society.

During his insightful engagement with Towards Employment, Tim shared invaluable wisdom gained from his nine-year collaboration with the organization. Emphasizing the critical distinction between will and skill, Tim underscored the importance of demonstrating initiative and commitment in the workplace.

Tim highlighted the key to retaining employment - showing up consistently and displaying a genuine desire to succeed. He encouraged individuals to seek mentorship and support, emphasizing the significance of learning from experienced colleagues and taking ownership of one's professional development.

Reflecting on his own journey, Tim emphasized the transformative power of second chances, urging individuals to seize opportunities and prove their worth. He emphasized the importance of persistence and humility, urging individuals to continually seek ways to improve and contribute positively to the workplace.

Tim reiterated Acor's commitment to partnering with Towards Employment, highlighting their willingness to give deserving candidates a chance to thrive. By investing in individuals and providing meaningful employment opportunities, Acor exemplifies its dedication to fostering talent and creating pathways for career advancement.

In summary, Tim's talk served as a beacon of inspiration, offering practical advice and encouragement to individuals striving to enter and succeed in the workforce. His words underscored the belief that with determination, perseverance, and the right support, anyone can overcome obstacles and achieve success.

As partners in progress, Towards Employment and Acor exemplify the transformative power of collaboration. Together, they are breaking down barriers, building bridges to opportunity, and paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

- Alyssa DeFlorentis, 04/02/2024