GREEN COVE SPRINGS —"America works best when all Americans work."

That's a quote that Challenge Enterprises continues to live by. And to celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month, the nonprofit, along with local employers alike, joined together to take a broader look at ways to make sure it remains true.

'"We want to create more work opportunities for people with disabilities," said Challenge Enterprises CEO Katie Vineyard.

The nonprofit's Employer Breakfast was held on Thursday, Oct. 23.

Challenge Enterprises, a nonprofit established in 1972, is dedicated to providing adult day training, residential services and employment to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 22.7% of people with a disability were employed in 2024.

Since 1988, the nonprofit said they've distributed nearly $50 million in wages to individuals with disabilities, including almost $3.6 million in 2024. The jobs are made possible through a variety of contracts with janitorial services, lawn maintenance, warehousing, document shredding and more across Northeast Florida and Southern Georgia.

Additionally, Challenge Enterprises members also sew the trauma packs for bullet proof vests.

Members interested in exploring employment are able to prepare by participating in training, building resumes and learning interview skills. The program, through Club Challenge, is funded by a grant from the Agency for Persons with Disabilities.

"Work is power. And we know that work is powerful. We know that employment is not just a simple goal to check off, it's a journey of trials and errors," said Nichole Redgate, Vice President of Services.

Many industry employers that the nonprofit has partnered with, such as Penney Retirement Community CEO Teresa Scott and Clay County Supervisor of Elections Chris Chambless, were present at the event and gave their testimony on the organization's impact.

"It's so much more than just a job. Individuals with Challenge Enterprises not only do they clean our facilities, they do much more. They engage in conversation and share their life with us. And we do with them," Chambless said.

Following the breakfast, guests were able mingle and take a tour of the Challenge Enterprises warehouse.