The Next Move Program, a Richmond based nonprofit that partners with area businesses to provide internships for young adults with disabilities, will host its annual Pioneer Awards on December 6 at Dogtown Dance Theatre. The Pioneer Awards, a signature event and fundraiser for the Next Move Program, serves as an opportunity to celebrate organizations in the Greater Richmond Area that promote inclusion in the workplace for individuals with developmental disabilities.

The Next Move Program was created by Mary Townley and Elizabeth Howley to addresses the unemployment crisis for individuals with disabilities in Virginia. Each year, approximately 21,000 students with disabilities graduate high school in the Commonwealth of Virginia. An average of 69% of these students graduate from school and are unable to find or keep employment. The Next Move Program aims to combat the unemployment rate for young adults with diverse needs through education and job training. By empowering individuals with disabilities to achieve their goals, 80% of Next Move’s graduates have gained employment or acceptance to post-secondary programming.

On December 6, Next Move will honor businesses in the community with inclusive training and hiring practices. The Pioneer Awards will be emceed by Nikki-Dee Ray of CBS 6 with a performance The Forest Hill Trio. All funds raised at the event will support Next Move’s scholarship fund. Click here for tickets to the Pioneer Awards.