Press Release  Massachusetts Commission for the Blind Honors Riverside Community Care with Annual Employer Partnership Award

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB) is thrilled to announce Riverside Community Care as the recipient of this year's Employer Partnership Award. This annual award recognizes outstanding employers who demonstrate a commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive work environment for people who are legally blind.

MCB’s Employer Partnership Award celebrates organizations that have significantly contributed to enhancing employment opportunities for the blind community. Riverside Community Care has been a standout partner in this mission, consistently providing internships, job opportunities, accommodations, and support to qualified candidates.

"Riverside Community Care has set a remarkable example for other employers by not only hiring people who are legally blind but also by providing the necessary support and accommodations to ensure their success,” said Commissioner John Oliveira. He commended the organization’s dedication to inclusivity and empowerment, noting, “Their efforts have made a tangible difference in the lives of many in our community."

Riverside Community Care, a community-based non-profit organization, serves more than 40,000 people annually in Massachusetts. Their services include mental healthcare, developmental and brain injury services, early childhood and youth programs, addiction treatment, and trauma response. Kristianne Widman, Assistant Director of Regional Employment Collaboratives, accepted the award on behalf of the organization.

The announcement was made during the closing ceremony of MCB’s summer internship program at the Massachusetts State House. This year, 45 interns graduated, joining approximately 900 graduates who have participated in the program since its inception in 2003.

“We have partnered with MCB for many years and are truly honored to receive this award,” said Riverside Community Care President & CEO Vic DiGravio. “Not only have our six Regional Employment Collaboratives collaborated closely with MCB to coordinate essential services such as housing, healthcare, and employment opportunities for individuals supported by MCB, but Riverside has greatly benefitted as an organization from the exceptional talent available through MCB’s internship program. Riverside has hired numerous MCB interns over the years, and we are pleased many have chosen to continue their careers at Riverside, contributing to our growth and success. This ongoing partnership underscores our shared commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities and creating inclusive opportunities that enrich our workforces and communities. We look forward to continuing this impactful collaboration for many years to come.”

This award underscores the importance of collaboration between public agencies and private employers in promoting employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Riverside Community Care’s partnership with MCB exemplifies how organizations can lead the way in creating a more inclusive society.

MCB looks forward to continuing its partnership with Riverside Community Care and other like-minded employers to expand opportunities and improve workplace accessibility for people who are legally blind.

Photo Caption: (From left to right) MCB Deputy Commissioner Justine Muir, Riverside Community Care President & CEO Vicker V. DiGravio III, MCB Commissioner John Oliveira, and Riverside Community Care Assistant Director of Regional Employment Collaboratives Kristianne Widman.

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