The InVisionary

In 2013, the world-renowned computer and software company, Microsoft, launched an initiative known as the Supported Employment Program out of their Seattle headquarters. Following its company mission to enable diversity and inclusion in the workplace, this initiative strives to provide people with disabilities the opportunity to obtain and sustain employment. With the success of the program, Microsoft made the decision to expand it to other cities, including Pittsburgh. Earlier this summer, Microsoft selected InVision as one of the organizations with whom they will partner. This is a unique experience and a difficult one to secure, as Microsoft has been selective in its program expansion.

As with the rest of the country, InVision and Microsoft are both still managing through the COVID-19 pandemic, causing delays on when the program will officially begin. InVision, however, remains pleased and excited about the chance to work with Microsoft.

“I think the partnership is important, as InVision was selected as one of only three providers in this region. I think that really speaks to our approach,” said Randy Dicks, the director of community-based programs at InVision. Randy and Marie Palmer, Comprehensive Living program manager, initially met with Microsoft representatives and completed the application progress. The partnership will entail InVision collaborating with Microsoft and their family of companies in the area to assist them with determining how they can create jobs for people with disabilities. “We are not yet certain how many jobs this may entail in our area, but it is truly an exciting opportunity.”

Little information is currently concrete as new virus cases spike across the country. InVision hopes to hit the ground running later this fall to begin extensive collaboration with Microsoft in securing jobs for the people we serve.

More detailed information coming soon!