JACKSONVILLE – Challenge Enterprises of North Florida, a non-profit organization that focuses on empowering individuals with intellectual, physical and developmental disabilities, was proud to recognize U.S. Rep. Aaron Bean last Monday as one of its recipients of the AbilityOne Congressional Champion Award.

“Challenge Enterprises is pleased to present this national honor to Congressman Bean and Congressman Rutherford as it recognizes their commitment to the citizens in their district living with disabilities,” said CEO of Challenge Enterprises Nancy Keating. “Their participation in congressional caucuses and support of good legislation demonstrates their commitment to the people with disabilities.”

Rep. Bean, who represents Clay County in the U.S. House of Representatives, has advocated for more employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. He supports AbilityOne, one of the largest employers for people who are blind or have significant disabilities in the U.S. And he supports SourceAmerica, which has self-reportedly employed more than 60,000 disabled Americans. Bean recognizes the commendable congressional record of the AbilityOne Program and more than 50 years of dedication to the community from Challenge Enterprises.

“Everybody deserves dignity, and it starts with a job,” said Congressman Bean.

Challenge Enterprises recognized Rep. Bean and his efforts at City Hall. During the event, Rep. Bean met with employees from Challenge Enterprises and was presented with the AbilityOne Congressional Champion Award. He gave a brief, heartfelt speech about his journey with Challenge Enterprises as they continue working together to empower individuals with disabilities.

“It is a great honor to be recognized,” said Congressman Bean. “It is what we always done: support anything that gives dignity to everybody.”