Mission

Our Programs

At Picket Fence Foundation, we believe that anyone can thrive in the right environment with the right supports. Our programs are designed to create real-world pathways to employment, entrepreneurship, and enrichment — tailored to the individual, not the system. As participants grow in skill and confidence, they shape not only their own futures, but the future of inclusion itself.

There’s More Than One Way In. We recognize that every individual has a unique path to belonging, growth, and contribution. That’s why we offer a spectrum of entry points — from creative classes and volunteer roles, to skill-building internships, to employment. Whether someone is just beginning to explore their interests, already has a product they’re ready to sell, or is looking for a job with purpose, we meet people where they are — and grow from there.

Ability Marketplace: Entrepreneurship & Economic Inclusion

Some vendors sell their products to us directly, and we take care of the rest — pricing, display, and sales. Others participate through consignment, managing their own inventory, setting up their displays, and checking on their stock regularly.

This flexibility allows both individuals and school-based groups to explore what it means to be a maker, seller, and small business owner — all within a supportive retail environment.

Why it matters:

• Only 4.9% of businesses are owned by people with disabilities, highlighting the barriers to entrepreneurship and financial independence.
• Accessible marketplace opportunities increase income potential and promote self-sufficiency for individuals with disabilities.

Through the Ability Marketplace, we provide a launchpad for creativity, business acumen, and economic empowerment.

DiscoverAbility: Skills & Community in Action

Our DiscoverAbility Classes and Workshops create hands-on learning experiences for people with disabilities within our operations. Participants gain skills in horticulture, floral design, and retail operations, building confidence and career readiness in a supportive environment. Volunteer groups also engage in meaningful work alongside our job coaches, fostering community connections and disability inclusion.

Why it matters:

• 81% of adults with disabilities are unemployed, despite many being willing and able to work.
• Hands-on training programs significantly increase employment success for people with disabilities by building job skills and confidence.

Through DiscoverAbility, we help bridge the gap between potential and opportunity.

HireAbility: Supported Employment at Every Level

Our flagship HireAbility Supported Employment Program provides a structured pathway to employment, supporting participants as they develop job skills and advance within PFF operations.

This program has three tiers:

Pre-Employment Internship

An 8-week paid internship pairs interns with disabilities alongside coaches in training, working primarily in greenhouse operations. Each week, participants attend a work skills class, ensuring both interns and coaches gain valuable professional development. This mutual learning model not only supports interns but also educates future allies in disability-inclusive workplaces.

In-House Job Coaching

An expanding team of Jr. Associates work under the direct support of three in-house employment specialists. Each participant maintains a consistent weekly schedule, setting and working toward individualized career goals that enhance their ability to contribute meaningfully to our operations. This hands-on coaching helps build a strong foundation for future employment, promoting independence and job readiness.

Integrated Employment

Individuals who are ready to take on more traditional roles are either are promoted from within after participating in our coaching programs, or apply directly based on readiness and alignment with the role.

Managers—trained in disability-inclusive supervision—oversee their work, while employment support staff provide periodic check-ins to ensure long-term success. This model fosters true workforce inclusion, where employees with disabilities work side-by-side with their peers in an environment that values talent and contribution over convention.

Why it matters:

• Employment disparities persist: Only 22.5% of working-age adults with disabilities are employed, compared to 65.8% of adults without disabilities.
• Supported employment works: Studies show that individualized coaching and workplace integration dramatically increase long-term employment retention rates for individuals with disabilities.

Through HireAbility, we’re not just creating jobs—we’re building careers, confidence, and an inclusive future.