TAC Industries Wins 2024 SourceAmerica Innovation Award For Fresh Abilities Program

TAC Industries has been honoured with the 2024 SourceAmerica Innovation Award for its collaboration with Fresh Abilities. The award, presented annually by SourceAmerica, recognises achievements in creating employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. SourceAmerica is a national organisation dedicated to increasing employment for people with disabilities through partnerships with the federal government.

The award was presented to TAC Industries at the Achievement Awards Banquet during the SourceAmerica XForce 2024 National Conference in Orlando, Florida. Fresh Abilities, a quick-service restaurant launched by TAC in 2020, offers training and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities in the food service industry. The programme addresses challenges such as labour shortages and high unemployment rates.

"At TAC Industries, we are committed to creating innovative solutions to empower individuals with disabilities," said Bridget Doane, Director of Business Development at TAC Industries. "Fresh Abilities represents our dedication to providing meaningful employment opportunities while addressing industry challenges."

The programme's curriculum includes over 100 hours of classroom instruction and hands-on skill building, culminating in ServSafe Level 1 certification, an industry standard for food safety and preparation. Graduates spend six to nine months working at Fresh Abilities before transitioning to other food service establishments.

In 2021, TAC formed a strategic partnership with Clark State College to enhance the programme's offerings and address operational challenges. Clark State provided access to kitchen facilities and equipment, as well as a trainer to deliver the classroom curriculum. This collaboration benefited both TAC and Clark State by providing a valuable food service provider on campus.

"The partnership with Clark State has been instrumental in expanding and enhancing the Fresh Abilities programme," said Jim Zahora, Chief Executive Officer. "Together, we are creating a winning scenario for individuals with disabilities, higher education institutions, and the community."

Since 2022, TAC and Clark State have worked together to improve the programme, expand outreach, and build connections with local food service establishments. Plans are underway to expand training to additional counties and replicate the model at other higher education institutions.

"We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Clark State as we strive to positively impact the lives of individuals in our community," added Doane.

For more information about TAC Industries and the Fresh Abilities programme, please visit www.tacind.com or www.freshabilities.com.