Removing Barriers to Employment Through Community Partnerships
When Josina Lott founded Lott Industries, her focus was always clear — creating opportunities for children and adults with developmental disabilities. She recognized a gap in society and saw the need for programs and support that would help individuals with different abilities grow, thrive, and reach their full potential.
For the past 70 years, we have been honored to carry forward that same mission and heart. While adults with developmental disabilities remain at the center of our work, we've also come to recognize that many people in our community face barriers to employment. Guided by Josina's vision and backed by decades of experience in job training and community employment, we've been privileged to partner with local organizations to help remove those barriers and create pathways to meaningful work.
One of those partnerships is with The Inspiration Kitchen, which hosts classes in our Lott Kitchen. Through hands-on training, individuals facing a variety of employment barriers — from developmental disabilities to generational poverty — gain culinary skills, earn certifications for restaurant employment, and develop workplace skills that can be applied across many industries. Each student is making an investment in themselves and their future.
This month, we're excited to highlight our partnership with Water for Ishmael. Water for Ishmael exists to be a welcoming community for internationals in the Toledo area, empowering them with the skills and support needed to build successful lives. Many of the individuals they serve arrive in Toledo after leaving behind family, community, and careers. Some begin their journey with little or no English experience, but through Water for Ishmael's programs, they gain language skills, confidence, and valuable job training that helps prepare them for sustainable employment.
““Water for Ishmael loves our partnership with Lott because of their deep passion and commitment to removing employment barriers for anyone in our community.””
Recently, we had the privilege of welcoming three women from Afghanistan into our workforce through this partnership. They are working on our Lott work floor, and we are honored to play a small role in their journey. Helping them to build skills and earn money is a powerful reminder of why partnerships like this matter.
Janelle Metzger, founder and director of Water for Ishmael, shared her appreciation for the partnership: "Water for Ishmael loves our partnership with Lott because of their deep passion and commitment to removing employment barriers for anyone in our community."
It is a joy to serve the Toledo community and create opportunities for individuals facing barriers to employment. We believe our community is strongest when everyone has the opportunity to contribute.
Introducing Hopability Brewing LLC!
Anne Grady Services, The Epilepsy Center of Northwest Ohio, and Lott Industries are coming together in a first-of-its-kind collaboration to launch a for-profit brewery with a purpose beyond traditional business. Hopability Brewing LLC is designed to create meaningful, sustainable employment opportunities for adults with disabilities, while also being a vibrant, community-centered destination.
More information to come!