Spectrum grant backs Missoula job training for people with disabilities

MISSOULA, Mont. — A new $30,000 grant from Spectrum is helping expand digital access and job training for people with disabilities in Missoula.

The funding went to the "EmployAbilities" Program and the Spectrum Training and Technology Center at Opportunities Resources Inc. Organizers said the support was helping local residents through both programs.

Danielle Dunn, Director of Communications with Spectrum, said the partnership reflected a longer effort between the company and the Missoula-based organization.

"Our funding support totals $170,000 since our partnership began. And it's really emblematic of the great work that Opportunity Resources has been doing in the community, equipping clients with the skills they need to participate fully in the community. And as we discussed during our check presentation, having a broader economic impact as well," Dunn said.

Jason Crouch, director of EmployAbilities at ORI, said the impact reached both the people served by the organization and the wider community.

"It's an amazing kind of situation...The benefit is directly translated to the individuals that we serve in our mission statement, and the Missoula community," Crouch said.

Spectrum and ORI have worked together for several years and reportedly plan to keep building the partnership while exploring other grant options to serve the community.