KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Sunshine Services, which provides job training and employment to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, announced a fundraiser to benefit affected employees before its Sunshine Industries Program closes near the end of the month.
The program is scheduled to close on February 27 due to federal compliance regulations, and it is trying to find new jobs for its employees. Sunshine Services is trying to raise $25,000 to help 24 people impacted, the program said Wednesday. Some have worked at Sunshine Industries since 1985.
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“For many of the individuals we serve, this program has been more than a workplace — it’s been a community,” said Kelsie Crittendon, Executive Director of Sunshine Services. “Our focus now is ensuring each person has a clear path forward that aligns with their goals, strengths, and interests.”
The program said it plans to meet with the 24 individuals and their families to offer services like community-based job placement, one-on-one coaching, resume building, interview preparation, transportation coordination, and ongoing employment support services…