From Mirror staff reports

PITTSBURGH — Altoona-based Sheetz Inc. is the first employer in Pennsylvania to commit to a new program aimed to assist Pennsylvanians with disabilities in transitioning from subminimum wage positions to competitive-integrated employment.

Achieva, a leading nonprofit organization supporting people with disabilities in western Pennsylvania, recently announced its role in the new Integrated Vocational Engagement & Support Team program, launched in partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.

The InVEST program serves as a step to ensure that people with disabilities have opportunities to pursue fulfilling careers. By focusing on eliminating barriers faced by those working in sheltered workshops, InVEST helps participants earn competitive wages and fully integrate into their communities.

Sheetz plans to hire up to 10 individuals annually and retain all previously hired individuals. Sheetz will support these new employees with job coaches funded by OVR, who will support on-site employees, develop accommodations and prepare employees for long-term success. The new program, which leverages millions of dollars in federal funding, helps transition individuals with disabilities away from subminimum wage positions to competitive, fulfilling careers.

The 10 positions will initially be recruited for the Sheetz headquarters in Claysburg.

“Sheetz is committed to being a great place to work and to do what we can to create more inclusive communities. The InVEST program builds on the success of our ‘store helper’ program, which has created new employment opportunities at stores in Blair and York counties for people with disabilities. We deeply appreciate this partnership with the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation and we are excited to bring this program to our Claysburg facilities,” said Nick Ruffner, Sheetz spokesman.

Achieva also partners with companies to help them meet their workforce needs by finding and supporting qualified candidates with disabilities. The nonprofit also assists employers with disability-hiring tax credits, ADA compliance, benefits management and more.

“Achieva knows people with disabilities are an important yet largely untapped cohort of Pennsylvania’s workforce. Employees with disabilities add value to a business through product and service innovation, quality performance and loyalty,” said Steve Suroviec, president and CEO of Achieva.

Achieva and the state Office of Vocational Rehabilitation will help people with disabilities find positions that match their skills, interests and talents.

“We believe everyone who wants to work should receive the support necessary to get and keep good jobs with competitive wages,” Suroviec said.

As part of the InVEST program, Achieva will provide tailored employment support to participants, including training, direct employment services and wraparound services, such as technology access, transportation and wellness support.