Employ+Ability, Inc. President Jim Middleton is not shy to say his company makes the best icepack in the world. But the accomplishments of his employees are what make him most proud.
"They are very, very special people," Middleton added.
Ten of Employ+Ability's employees visited Gillette Stadium on Wednesday to show off the "Official Icepack of the New England Patriots and New England Revolution," just one of the Braintree-based, not-for-profit company's products.
Employ+Ability's mission is to provide career empowerment for persons with disabilities by producing cost effective products, including medical supplies. Its message is simple and true: "Work is Good."
"It's wonderful to work with Employ+Ability," Patriots Charitable Foundation President Josh Kraft said. "They provide meaningful employment and, with that, a sense of pride and accomplishment, to people with disabilities. We're happy to recognize them for their work."
Only 32% of people with disabilities between the ages of 18 and 64 work full or part-time. Over the last 28 years, Employ+Ability has sought to reverse that trend.
"We looked toward the Patriots and Revolution because of the great work that they do in the community," Middleton said. "That's what we're all about. We provide opportunities to people who otherwise wouldn't be able to find employment."
After enjoying a tour of Gillette Stadium on Wednesday, the Employ+Ability employees met with Pro Football Hall of Famer and Patriots Executive Director of Community Affairs Andre Tippett, Revolution General Manager Craig Tornberg and Kraft on the field.
"We're proud to be associated with Employ+Ability and its mission and goals," Tornberg said. "Employ+Ability empowers its workers and generates a real sense of team success, qualities both the Revolution and Patriots rely on to accomplish great things."
For more information about Employ+Ability, please visit www.WorkisGood.org.
Jim Middleton (second from left) and employees from Employ+Ability are joined by Patriots Charitable Foundation President Josh Kraft (third from left), Pro Football Hall of Famer Andre Tippett (center) and New England Revolution General Manager Craig Tornberg (far right) on the field at Gillette Stadium to unveil "The Official Ice Pack of the New England Patriots and New England Revolution".
