Big Recognition For Everett-Based Bridgeways

Earlier this year we told you about Bridgeways, a manufacturing facility that helps those with mental health issues and disabilities find meaningful employment.

Recently Bridgeways was honored by the Governor’s Committee on Disability Issues & Employment (GCDE) and the Washington State Business Leadership Network recognized Bridgeways at the 25^th Annual Governor’s Employer Awards ceremony, held October 31^st at the Microsoft Conference Center in Redmond.

Bridgeways received the 2017 Governor’s Employer Award for “Medium-nonprofit Employer.”

Jeff Patterson, a director of development at Bridgeways passed along the good news…

Washington businesses, agencies, organizations and individuals submitted the nominations. A panel of GCDE members, business representatives and previous award recipients selected this year’s honorees.

Bridgeways maintains an accessible and supportive workplace for people living with mental illness in the context of a busy manufacturing facility, serving customers in the aerospace and other industries.

Recent data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration show the unemployment rate for those engaged in public mental health services in Washington State is almost 87%.  According to Bridgeways CEO Donna Konicki, “a core part of our mission is related to employment, because a job removes people from isolation and builds connections with others, promotes independence, a sense of accomplishment, hope, self-respect and valid participation in the workforce and community.”

The GCDE advises the governor, Legislature, state agencies and other policy makers on issues important to people with disabilities.

Bridgeways connects adults living with mental illness to life-changing opportunities through employment and other vital services. Learn more at www.bridgeways.org.