Workforce Inclusion

The Governor’s Committee on Disability Issues and Employment provides state level advocacy and leadership with the disability community to obtain equity in economic opportunity and community inclusion. The goal is an equitable Washington where people with disabilities experience full inclusion, full participation and economic vibrancy.

The annual Governor’s Employer Award recognizes and promotes the achievements of employers, organizations and individuals who recruit, hire and promote employees with disabilities.

As acknowledgement of The Hearthstone’s commitment to individuals with disabilities as a valued segment of our workforce, Nathan Alpaugh and Michael Hickey accepted our award in the Medium Non-Profit Employer category for our partnership with Northwest Center and our employment of members of their program.

Northwest Center’s mission is to remove barriers to disability inclusion at school, work and in the community. Their services empower people with disabilities from cradle through career and help schools, businesses and the broader community embrace inclusive, anti-ableist practices.

Pictured L to R: Northwest Center’s Zach Young, Nathan Alpaugh, The Hearthstone’s Michael Hickey and Madison Hagerty of Northwest Center