In 2023, a significant milestone was reached in our longstanding partnership with eitas when they gifted Job One our production and day services facility located at our headquarters on Yuma Avenue in Independence. This generous gesture was not only a testament to eitas’ forward-thinking and fiscal responsibility to Jackson County taxpayers, but also a strategic move that brought about numerous benefits for our community partners and the people we serve.
The vision and generosity of eitas unlocked opportunities for us to make significant improvements to our facilities, including a much-needed renovation of our kitchen space. Thanks to a generous grant from the Taylor S. Abernathy & Patti Harding Abernathy Charitable Trust, we partnered with BV Contracting Solutions, Pro Circuit, and Blue Mills Plumbing to create a modern and beautiful kitchen area. Additionally, our vending partner, Quality Vending, contributed by donating a sleek new glass-front refrigerator, further enhancing the space.
This upgraded kitchen will serve as a hub of activity and opportunity for Job One participants. Our employees can enjoy a greater variety of meal options during their breaks, while Community-Based Day Services participants have the chance to learn and share new kitchen skills.
eitas’ gift continues to yield positive outcomes, proving to be a catalyst for community partnerships and enriching experiences. It has helped lay the foundation for a more inclusive and supportive environment where people with disabilities can thrive. The relationships and opportunities created through this collaboration emphasize the shared commitment to empowering individuals and fostering a community where everyone has a chance to connect, engage, and belong.