Dear Spectrum Works Community,
As we approach the end of another impactful year, it is my pleasure to share with you the progress we've made at Spectrum Works and our outlook for 2025. As a proud member of the Board of Directors and Chief People Officer at Bergen Logistics, I have the unique opportunity to witness firsthand the transformative work that Spectrum Works is doing to empower autistic individuals and create inclusive workplaces.
Reflecting on Our Progress in 2024
2024 has been a year of growth, resilience, and remarkable achievements for Spectrum Works. We've continued to expand our partnerships with forward-thinking companies, offering more job training and placement opportunities for neurodiverse students and young adults. Through the dedication of our team, partners, and community, we have seen an increase in job and internship placements, a deeper commitment to our mission, and a growing network of businesses championing inclusive hiring practices.
Our programs are not just making an impact—they are changing lives. This year, Spectrum Works continued its strong track record of providing meaningful, sustainable employment opportunities, setting our students up for success in the workforce. We are proud to have provided internships and employment opportunities to 122 autistic individuals in 2024, helping bridge the gap between education and employment and creating pathways for individuals to thrive in fulfilling careers.
A Strong Partnership with Bergen Logistics
One of the highlights of the year has been the continued success of the Spectrum Works program at Bergen Logistics. Together, we've made significant strides in building a pipeline of skilled workers, particularly in Bergen’s warehouse and logistics operations. The program has proven to be an excellent fit, offering students hands-on experience and creating a robust, supportive environment where they can develop key job skills.
I am thrilled to share that Bergen Logistics hired two more of our talented Spectrum Works participants at the beginning of December, bringing the total number of autistic employees hired through their program to six. We are also planning to welcome one more participant in January after he completes the program. This is a huge step forward and a testament to the effectiveness of our partnership. We are proud of these students, and I am excited to see them take the next step in their careers with Bergen Logistics. This is a model of what is possible when businesses like ours invest in diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Looking Ahead: Exciting Plans for 2025
Looking ahead to 2025, we are poised for even greater accomplishments. Spectrum Works will continue to expand its reach, working with more companies across industries to help them recognize the value of inclusive hiring. We are also planning to introduce new initiatives that will strengthen our training programs and broaden the spectrum of job opportunities available to our graduates.
We are committed to deepening our relationships with partners, like Bergen Logistics, and many others, creating sustainable pathways to employment and career advancement for the individuals we work with. Our focus will be on ensuring that every student has the support, tools, and resources they need to thrive in the workforce.
A Heartfelt Thank You
I want to take a moment to thank each of you—our partners, donors, board members, volunteers, and the dedicated Spectrum Works staff—whose unwavering commitment to our mission makes all of this possible. We could not do this work without your support. Together, we are changing the future for neurodiversity inclusion, one job at a time.
Thank you for being a part of this journey. I look forward to celebrating our continued successes in 2025 and beyond.
Marjorie Ramos
Board Member, Spectrum Works
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