Dutton Farm, Rochester, Mich.-based behavioral health service provider committed to empowering adults with disabilities, recently received a grant from DTE Energy Foundation to enhance its workforce development and advocacy efforts.
Over 1.3 million individuals with disabilities living in Michigan strive for equal opportunity in the workplace, while struggling to afford necessities.
Dutton Farm CEO Jenny Brown said, “To eliminate barriers to employment, we must advocate for systemic change while also providing the support that individuals with disabilities need for success.”
Dutton Farm’s Workforce Development program promotes employment opportunities by providing vocational training, job development, placement, and job coaching. Their unique approach involves an in-depth, person-centered process, resulting in a 95% employment success rate.
“The DTE Foundation partners with effective and equitable organizations that are committed to programming that serves the unmet needs of diverse, vulnerable residents while engaging the community. Dutton Farm’s work is vital to this mission, removing barriers by providing purpose and opportunities to Michiganders,” said Rodney Cole, DTE Foundation president. “Supporting organizations like Dutton Farm has a multiplier effect in developing our state’s talent and filling a void where families need it most. We are grateful to help further their efforts, ultimately expanding the team’s ability to serve the needs of individuals with disabilities entering the workforce.”
This grant allows Dutton Farm to strengthen their program, increasing outreach, training, and advocacy efforts to achieve equity for this underserved population, creating more inclusive workplaces and communities.
“The DTE Foundation has made this work a priority by generously providing a grant to increase our advocacy efforts. Our partnership is critical to accomplishing Dutton Farm’s mission and furthering our impact,” said Brown.