Opportunity Enterprises (OE) has established a partnership with ERI, the nation’s largest fully integrated IT and electronics asset disposition provider and cybersecurity-focused hardware destruction company, to train job-seekers with varied abilities to work in the electronic recycling industry.

Opportunity Enterprises (OE) works to maximize self-sufficiency and enrich the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. OE specializes in inclusivity training for employers and vocational training for employees of all abilities.

ERI has established a dedicated training space in its state-of-the-art Plainfield, Indiana facility for this 10-12 week program. Graduates of the program will have the opportunity to work for ERI. OE will supervise job coaching for up to two years from the date of hire to ensure successful outcomes. OE will also assist ERI with inclusivity training for employees and management to assist with integrating the new employees into ERI’s work environment. 

“For over 55 years, OE has believed that employees of all abilities bring a unique set of skills and talents to their role,” said Neil Samahon, OE’s president/CEO. “It’s all about finding the right fit for each person’s strengths and creating an environment that values inclusivity. Studies have shown that companies that hire people of varied abilities outperform their peers and report increased productivity, higher profit margins, and higher net income. Hiring someone with a disability is not a philanthropic effort, but truly a way to enhance your workforce performance. We applaud ERI for their innovative approach to expanding their workforce.”

“Our mission has always been to leave the planet better than we found it,” said John Shegerian, ERI’s chairman/CEO. “We are excited to kick off this project as it aligns perfectly with our commitment to sustainability and ongoing dedication to developing a diverse and inclusive workforce. With this program, we are not only recycling electronics and keeping toxic e-waste out of landfills, but we are also providing career opportunities in a sustainable industry for people who are differently abled. We’re very proud of our relationship with Opportunity Enterprises and of the fantastic ERI team members who will become part of our work family through this program. When you can make a living and make the world a better place at the same time, that is when the magical journey begins.”

Companies interested in partnering with OE to expand their workforce initiatives can contact Kathleen Parks, senior director of employment services and transition by calling (219) 464-9621 ext. 213 or by emailing kathleen.parks@oppent.org.  

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Opportunity Enterprises, Inc.

For 55 years, Opportunity Enterprises has worked to maximize self-sufficiency and enrich the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. OE is in the business of amazing people serving more than 1,000 people annually with disabilities in Northwest Indiana with over 360 staff and many volunteers. To learn more about OE, take a tour, or make a gift, visit oppent.org.

ERI

ERI is the largest fully integrated IT and electronics asset disposition provider and cybersecurity-focused hardware destruction company in the United States. ERI is certified at the highest level by all leading environmental and data security oversight organizations to de-manufacture, recycle, and refurbish every type of electronic device in an environmentally responsible manner. It is the first and only company in its industry to achieve carbon neutrality at all its facilities nationwide, and the first to achieve SOC 2 certification for security and data protection. ERI has the capacity to process more than a billion pounds of electronic waste annually at its nine certified locations, serving every zip code in the United States. ERI’s mission is to protect people, the planet, and privacy. For more information about e-waste recycling and ERI, call 1-800-ERI-DIRECT or visit https://eridirect.com.