ABLED: Building Pathways to Employment for Adults with Disabilities

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In this episode, I'm speaking with Kara Green, co-founder and executive director of ABLED, alongside Kelsey Emmett, a participant whose journey captures exactly why this work matters.

What began as a deeply personal mission to support Kara’s son Ben—who is on the autism spectrum—has grown into a thriving organization helping transition-age youth and young adults develop the skills needed for meaningful, independent employment.

ABLED fills a critical gap. For individuals who are ready to work but need additional support to build stamina, confidence, and real-world experience, this program provides a structured pathway forward. Through job training, community partnerships, and hands-on opportunities like working at Sutter Health Park, clients gain both technical and emotional skills that prepare them for long-term success.

From serving just five individuals to now supporting more than 50 clients annually, ABLED is proving that when people are given the right environment and support, they don’t just participate—they thrive.

This conversation highlights not only the systems change needed in workforce development for people with disabilities, but also the human side of growth—confidence built, fears overcome, and futures reimagined.

💡 Why It Matters

There’s a staggering reality at the center of this conversation: roughly 80% of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are unemployed or underemployed.

ABLED is directly addressing that gap—creating a bridge between potential and opportunity.

This episode is a reminder that inclusion isn’t just about access—it’s about preparation, belief, and building systems that actually work for people.

⏱️ Chapter Timestamps (YouTube-Friendly)

00:00 – Welcome + The Origin of ABLED
02:00 – From 5 Clients to 50+ Served
04:00 – The Gap Between School and Employment
06:00 – What “Graduation” Looks Like
08:00 – Real Work Experience: Sutter Health Park
10:00 – Community Partnerships + Collaborations
13:00 – Funding + Grassroots Support
15:00 – Big Vision: Scaling ABLED Nationwide
18:00 – Measuring Impact Beyond Data
21:00 – Confidence, Growth, and Breakthrough Moments
24:00 – Greatest Needs: Volunteers + Transportation
27:00 – Success Stories + Real Outcomes
30:00 – Beyond the Mission (Personal Side of Leadership)
33:00 – Closing Reflections + Community Impact

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