Inclusive Workforces WORK!

On Monday, Friendship Circle and the JCC hosted an inspiring FC Talks Workshop: Building Inclusive Workforces — a powerful evening focused on turning intention into action. With insights from Jim Lilley, Assistant District Administrator from the PA Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR), attendees learned how job coaching, wage reimbursement, accommodations, and early collaboration create real pathways to employment for adults with disabilities.

We had a great show of support from local organizations including GE, Achieva, Circle of Friends Employment, the JCC, The Branch, Down Syndrome Association of Pittsburgh and Wesley Family Services + more than 50 attendees online and in person!

"It was amazing -- it gave me a lot of hope," said one Friends on the Town member, Josh.

A dynamic panel - including Rivkee Rudolph (Director of The Friendship Circle Pittsburgh and Bunny Bakes Cafe), Ariel Matz (Inclusion Consultant), and Josh Platto (FC's Alumni Council Vice President and employee at BNY Mellon) - brought the conversation to life, sharing what intentional, person-centered employment truly looks like in practice.

One highlight was the continued growth of The Friendship Circle’s collaboration with the PA Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR). Through OVR partnerships, FC has hired employees with structured wage reimbursement and coaching support and referred individuals to expand their employment opportunities. This proves that when businesses, families, and advocates work together, inclusive employment isn’t just possible - it’s powerful.

Building stronger workplaces builds a stronger community — and that’s work that belongs to all of us.

As one FC parent participant noted, "It was thoughtful, inspiring, and such a beautiful reflection of the heart of Friendship Circle."

Led by our Alumni Council, FC Talks opens the conversation on advocacy, inclusion, and other disability-related topics. We invite the community to join us for engaging panels that spark learning, connection, and change.