Challenge Unlimited discusses disability employment and its hydroponic smart farm in Alton

Challenge Unlimited leaders Susan Wild and Charlotte Hammond discuss the organization’s work supporting people with disabilities to live, work and participate in their communities. They explain how the organization connects job seekers with employers, provides job coaching and supports people through the job-search and hiring process, with a focus on National Disability Employment Awareness Month and year-round employment services.

The conversation also explores Challenge Unlimited’s hydroponic smart farm on its Alton campus, developed in partnership with Theodora Farms. Participants are learning to operate the farm and build transferable work skills as the partners work toward growing and distributing fresh produce. The interview also covers the farm’s connection to local food-insecurity efforts and ways employers can partner with Challenge Unlimited.