Seven Things You Didn't Know About SourceAmerica

SourceAmerica^® was founded on June 26, 1974

In 1971 six National Nonprofit Agencies joined forces to expand the Wagner-O'Day Act which required that all government agencies prioritize the purchasing of products to suppliers that employ individuals who are blind. The new act, which would be called the Javits-Wagner-O’Day (JWOD) Act, expanded from individuals who are blind to include people with significant disabilities. It also allowed for the provision of both services and products. In 1974, SourceAmerica was founded as a national organization to provide technical assistance to nonprofit agencies participating in the Javits-Wagner-O'Day Program, (later renamed as the AbilityOne^® Program.

SourceAmerica was originally called National Industries for the Severely Handicapped (NISH)

From 1974 to 2013 SourceAmerica was known as the National Industries for the Severely Handicapped (NISH). In 2013, we launched our new brand – SourceAmerica – to better reflect the mission and spirit of the organization. At the same time, it highlighted the nationwide scope of our efforts and our pride in being one of the largest sources of job opportunities for professionals with disabilities.

SourceAmerica's first National Training Conference occurred in 1978 in St. Louis

SourceAmerica has hosted more than 40 National Training and Achievement Conferences since 1978. Our national conference gives the member nonprofit agencies within our network an opportunity to connect and receive training to better support their initiatives. In addition, our national awards program recognizes the outstanding contributions of both employers and employees that strive to create a truly inclusive workforce.

The SourceAmerica network employs over 80,000 people with disabilities

SourceAmerica connects professionals with disabilities to career opportunities across the United States. Currently, our national network of member nonprofit agencies employs over 80,000 people with disabilities. These talented individuals contribute to various federal and commercial agencies all throughout the nation. In fact, many of them actively supported the federal COVID-19 response. SourceAmerica continues its commitment to expanding job opportunities and connecting even more professionals to employment choices.

There are over 700 member nonprofit agencies in the SourceAmerica network

The nonprofit agencies within our network hold many of the contracts that employ the professionals with disabilities in our network. As one of three Central Nonprofit Agencies (CNAs) in the AbilityOne Program, we provide contract support, training, and various other resources to assist our network.

SourceAmerica is an expert in various business lines

From call centers to administrative services to custodial, food services and more, SourceAmerica and its vast network of nonprofit agencies provide a talented workforce that can fulfill many job functions. With over 40 years of experience, we are committed to providing exceptional solutions for both government and commercial clients across the United States. Check out our vast array of business lines.

SourceAmerica has a Speakers Bureau program

The Speakers Bureau is filled with professionals with disabilities from across our network of nonprofit agencies that are ready to share their experiences in the workplace. Individuals participating in the program provide a first-hand account of the many capabilities people with disabilities can bring to the workplace. If you’re hosting a virtual event and are interested in having one of our speakers join, contact us.

If you're interested in learning more about our network, please contact us at customerservice@sourceamerica.org.