In a recent interview with Federal News Network, Richard Belden, president and CEO of SourceAmerica, shared insights into the organization’s expanding role in federal contracting and its efforts to create employment opportunities for individuals with significant disabilities. SourceAmerica, part of the AbilityOne program, connects the federal government with a network of approximately 400 nonprofit agencies across the United States. These agencies employ people with disabilities to provide a wide range of services, from traditional custodial and food services to cutting-edge professional roles such as IT support, call centers, and supply chain management.

Belden noted the growing demand for IT-related services, not only in the federal sector but also commercially, emphasizing the importance of equipping workers with the necessary skills and certifications. Through the SourceAmerica Academy, the organization offers thousands of training programs to prepare individuals for knowledge-based jobs, ensuring they are competitive in areas like IT services and help desk support. A major milestone for SourceAmerica is its inclusion in NASA’s SEWP VI program, a government-wide acquisition contract that now incorporates IT services. This marks a significant evolution, as SourceAmerica agencies are increasingly serving as subcontractors to major federal contractors, integrating their workforce into high-profile projects.

Belden also discussed the legislative priorities aimed at modernizing the Wagner-O’Day Act, which governs the AbilityOne program. Proposed changes include updating the definition of disability, adjusting employment ratios to include indirect roles such as management and quality assurance, and fostering upward and outward mobility for employees. These updates, Belden argued, would better reflect the capabilities of individuals with disabilities and expand long-term career opportunities.

The interview touched on the challenges posed by rising wages under federal service contracts, an area impacted by the executive order requiring a minimum wage of $15 an hour. While wage increases are a positive step, Belden explained that the lack of corresponding funding increases in federal contracts has reduced the number of hours agencies can offer, creating additional pressure on nonprofit organizations that already operate with tight budgets.

SourceAmerica’s work extends beyond federal contracts into unique sectors such as agriculture. Belden highlighted a partnership with a member of Congress to explore how people with disabilities can contribute to farming and agricultural operations. These efforts demonstrate the organization’s adaptability and commitment to finding diverse employment opportunities for its workforce.

Throughout the conversation, Belden reflected on the financial and social impact of SourceAmerica and the broader AbilityOne program. He noted that for every dollar spent administering the program, there is a 250% return, driven by increased tax revenues from employed individuals and reduced government benefit expenditures. This dual success—supporting meaningful employment for individuals with disabilities while delivering significant financial benefits to taxpayers—reinforces the importance of SourceAmerica’s mission.

The full interview is available on Federal News Network, providing a comprehensive look at the evolution and ongoing contributions of SourceAmerica and the AbilityOne program.