SourceAmerica Presents Improvements in Disability Employment to National Council on Disability

SourceAmerica recently presented updated data to the National Council on Disability to clarify the impact of the AbilityOne Program. The organization provided evidence to correct previous reports that contained inaccurate information regarding disability employment outcomes. This submission highlights how the program creates long-term career paths for individuals with disabilities while meeting federal procurement needs.

Between 2022 and 2025, the AbilityOne workforce grew from 32,652 to 37,407 employees. During this same window, the average hourly wage for participants rose from $16.43 to $19.68. The data also tracks upward mobility within the program, noting 8,800 internal promotions and the successful transition of 6,000 employees into private sector roles during that four-year period.

Richard Belden, CEO of SourceAmerica, stated that this growth occurred despite significant labor market challenges like post-pandemic disruption and wage competition. He emphasized that the program provides a stabilizing effect for workers. The presentation also addressed progress on strategic initiatives, including the transition away from 14(c) wage certificates across the nonprofit network.

SourceAmerica continues to serve as a bridge between federal contractors and the government. The organization maintains that the AbilityOne Program fulfills a specific mission that remains distinct from other federal employment initiatives. The full report and additional data are available on the organization’s website for those interested in the operational details of the program.