About Us
Our Mission
At EmployAbility Nebraska, our mission is to help people with disabilities find meaningful employment opportunities that match their skills, interests, and needs. We believe that everyone deserves the chance to contribute to their community and achieve economic independence.
Since our founding, we have been committed to breaking down barriers to employment for individuals with disabilities while supporting employers in creating diverse and inclusive workplaces.
Through personalized support, expert guidance, and community partnerships, we've helped thousands of Nebraskans with disabilities discover their potential and find fulfilling careers.
Our Values
Empowerment
We believe in empowering individuals to identify their own strengths, set their own goals, and make their own choices about employment.
Inclusion
We advocate for workplaces where everyone belongs, is valued, and has equal opportunities to succeed and contribute.
Partnership
We believe in the power of collaboration between job-seekers, employers, community organizations, and government agencies.
"For people with disabilities, employment means greater economic self-sufficiency, an opportunity to use their skills, and more active participation in community life."
In This Section
About the Grant Program
The Munroe-Meyer Institute has received the largest grant in the organizations history.
The $9.9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education is designed to ensure individuals with disabilities between ages 14 and 24 have access to in-demand, good-paying jobs.
By the end of the five-year grant, Ray said, the goal is to have worked with 2,500 individuals on employment activities across the state.
This grant will help to complement existing programming at MMI.
"We're tailoring training and career exploration to their interests. We can demonstrate the individual's skill level, as well. These teens and young adults have the aptitude and capacity to do the work."
Our History
Our Beginnings
EmployAbility Nebraska was established as a small initiative to help individuals with disabilities find employment opportunities in local businesses.
Expanding Services
We expanded our services to include comprehensive job training, career counseling, and workplace accommodation support, serving hundreds of Nebraskans annually.
Statewide Recognition
EmployAbility Nebraska received statewide recognition for our innovative approaches to inclusive employment and employer partnerships.
Leading the Way
Today, we continue to lead the way in disability employment services in Nebraska, having helped thousands of individuals find meaningful work and partnered with hundreds of inclusive employers.
Our Leadership Team
Our Staff
| Name | Position | Location | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
Marla Smilth
|
Behavioral Health Practitioner II | Omaha | marla@employnebraska.org |
Lisa Washington
|
Career Counselor | Omaha | l.washington@employnebraska.org |
|
James Garcia
|
Employer Specialist | Lincoln | j.garcia@employnebraska.org |
|
Emily Chen
|
Accommodation Specialist | Omaha | e.chen@employnebraska.org |
|
Marcus Johnson
|
Program Coordinator | Grand Island | m.johnson@employnebraska.org |
Join Our Mission
Whether you're looking for employment opportunities, seeking qualified candidates, or interested in supporting our work, we'd love to connect with you.