Unisource Worldwide Named “2012 Employer of the Year”

NORCROSS, GA—February 12, 2013—The California Disability Services Association (CDSA) has named Unisource Worldwide, “2012 Employer of the Year” for the company’s commitment to employing people with developmental disabilities.

The CDSA Excellence in Employment Award program highlights employers with a commitment to diversity in the workplace—demonstrated by their efforts to expand job opportunities for persons with developmental disabilities.

The nomination was made by PRIDE Industries, headquartered in Roseville, CA, which has partnered with Unisource Worldwide for more than 15 years supporting the employment of approximately 150 individuals with disabilities. Unisource employs some 50 PRIDE Industries clients with disabilities at its Sacramento facility, where the employees provide pre-assembly manufacturing services in a supported employment environment. Additionally, Unisource partners with PRIDE for assembly and kitting services, creating work for up to 100 people with developmental disabilities at PRIDE’s facility in the Natomas area of Sacramento, CA.

“Unisource is being honored for its role in integrating people with developmental disabilities into their workforce,” noted Chris Rice, executive director of the CDSA. “We are pleased to name them Employer of the Year. Unisource has gone above and beyond to create jobs for those most often excluded from employment.”

“Unisource is proud to embrace a diverse and inclusive workforce including people of all abilities,” said Al Dragone, CEO of Unisource Worldwide. “These team members are highly committed, highly motivated, and extremely productive. We view them as a valuable asset to our organization.”

An award ceremony and luncheon was held on Feb. 12, 2013, at the Unisource facility in Sacramento. Approximately 30 PRIDE Industries employees were present at the event as the CDSA recognized Unisource for its commitment to provide meaningful jobs for people with disabilities.

About Unisource Worldwide
Unisource Worldwide, headquartered in Norcross, GA, is one of the largest privately-held companies in the United States and offers a comprehensive suite of customer solutions—including engineered design capabilities, eBusiness technologies, logistics expertise, paper brokerage services, and environmentally-responsible options. The company also markets a full line of commercial printing and business imaging papers, packaging materials and systems, and facility supplies and equipment. With more than 4,500 Team Members located worldwide throughout business units in the United States, Canada, Europe and Asia; and a fleet of “Big Red” trucks based at approximately 90 locations across North America, Unisource is the company that provides Customer Solutions in a Global Market. Unisource can be found online at www.unisourceworldwide.com.

About California Disability Services Association
CDSA is a statewide trade association representing more than 80 community-based organizations that help persons with developmental disabilities throughout California find meaningful employment, live independently, and participate in a broad range of activities. For more information about CDSA and the services its member organizations provide, visit www.cal-dsa.org.

About PRIDE Industries
PRIDE Industries is a nonprofit organization meeting the manufacturing and facilities service needs of public and private organizations nationwide while creating jobs for people with disabilities. Operating in 12 states and the nation’s capital, PRIDE employs and serves more than 4,900 individuals, including more than 2,800 people with disabilities. Headquartered in Roseville, CA., PRIDE Industries ranks as the fourth-largest manufacturing and service company in the greater Sacramento region. Learn more at www.prideindustries.com.

Source: Unisource.