The City of Albuquerque has reported progress with its Pathways to Public Service program, which aims to increase supported employment opportunities for people with disabilities. The initiative is operated in partnership with LSG & Associates Inc., a contractor working with New Mexico’s Division of Vocational Rehabilitation.
Participants in the program undergo a 12-week paid volunteer rotation that introduces them to various city departments. After this period, they can enter a two-year internship placement within a department. One participant, Emilia, completed her internship and was subsequently hired as a city employee. Her work at parking facilities has received positive feedback from both staff and visitors at City Hall, including Mayor Tim Keller.
Emilio Pinon, a supervisor in Parking Services, has been promoting the program as an example for other departments. “I have always believed in giving everyone a fair chance and allowing them to prove themselves with their merit, and Emelia has proved it day in and day out with hard work and pride in her work,” Pinon said. “I feel blessed to be part of this program and see the success we are having.”
The Pathways to Public Service program was created following City Council resolution R-20-84, sponsored by Councilor Klarissa Peña. The resolution supports employment opportunities for people with disabilities by offering eligible participants hands-on experience through rotations and internships within city government roles. Two additional participants have begun internships at the Balloon Museum.
City Council Vice President Klarissa J. Peña commented on the significance of the initiative: “The Pathways to Public Service Program is deeply personal to me, as I have seen firsthand the challenges my brother faces as a person with disabilities,” she said. “The launch of the City’s inclusive hiring program is a momentous step towards a more equitable Albuquerque. It’s about more than just creating jobs; it’s about fostering a culture of true inclusion and belonging, where every individual has the opportunity to contribute their unique talents. The entire community can now share in our commitment to building a city where every person can achieve their full potential.”
Erin White-Canales, executive director of LSG & Associates Inc., described the collaboration as valuable for opening up municipal job opportunities that participants might not otherwise encounter: “LSG & Associates Inc is proud to be partnering with the City of Albuquerque’s Pathways to Public Service program opening equitable opportunities for individuals with diversABILITIES to explore and learn from a multitude of municipal jobs that they otherwise would not know was possible or even existed,” White-Canales said. “This collaboration has been beneficial in supporting participants in attaining not just a job, but a career leaving them feeling like they are a contributing member to their community. We are excited to continue to grow this program together and look forward to witnessing the success stories it brings.”
