Over 1.3 million individuals with disabilities living in Michigan strive for equal opportunity in the workplace, while struggling to afford necessities.
Dutton Farm CEO Jenny Brown said, “To eliminate barriers to employment, we must advocate for systemic change while also providing the support that individuals with disabilities need for success.”
Dutton Farm’s Workforce Development program promotes employment opportunities by providing vocational training, job development, placement, and job coaching. Their unique approach involves an in-depth, person- centered process, resulting in a 95% employment success rate.
“The DTE Foundation partners with effective and equitable organizations that are committed to programming that serves the unmet needs of diverse, vulnerable residents while engaging the community. Dutton Farm’s work is vital to this mission, removing barriers by providing purpose and opportunities to Michiganders,” said Rodney Cole, DTE Foundation president. “Supporting organizations like Dutton Farm has a multiplier effect in developing our state’s talent and filling a void where families need it most. We are grateful to help further their efforts, ultimately expanding the team’s ability to serve the needs of individuals with disabilities entering the workforce.”
This grant allows Dutton Farm to strengthen their program, increasing outreach, training, and advocacy efforts to achieve equity for this underserved population, creating more inclusive workplaces and communities.
“The DTE Foundation has made this work a priority by generously providing a grant to increase our advocacy efforts. Our partnership is critical to accomplishing Dutton Farm’s mission and furthering our impact,” said Brown.
About Dutton Farm
Dutton Farm is an innovative nonprofit in the behavioral health field whose mission is empowering and supporting adults with developmental disabilities to live a life of purpose, inclusion and dignity. Through its adult education, community involvement, and workforce development programs, Dutton Farm impacts hundreds of lives both on the farm and in our communities each day. For more information, visit duttonfarm.org .
About DTE Energy Foundation
The DTE Energy Foundation (“Foundation”) is the philanthropic arm of DTE Energy (“DTE”) and supports initiatives focused on arts and culture, community transformation, economic progress, education and employment, environment, and human needs. For more than 20 years, the Foundation has invested in communities where DTE has a business presence. In 2022, the Foundation provided more than $15 million in grant support to over 300 nonprofits. Visit DTEFoundation.com to learn more.
