BISMARCK — North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) Vocational Rehabilitation division has recognized two businesses for supporting an inclusive workforce by hiring, training and inspiring people with disabilities to excel in the workplace.
The agency and State Rehabilitation Council selected Hugo’s Family Marketplace of Grand Forks as the 2023 North Dakota State VR Employer of the Year. Minot Automotive Center was recognized with the You Make a Difference Award.
Hugo’s Family Marketplace was selected from among 10 nominees and was recognized for efforts to support and inspire individuals with disabilities to achieve employment goals and reach their full potential in their community.
The Grand Forks Vocational Rehabilitation office team member who nominated Hugo’s Family Marketplace for this honor said it was because of their long-term commitment to help students with disabilities build job skills and gain valuable work experience in a welcoming and supportive environment.
“We are honored to receive this recognition. We believe all our associates have unique abilities that make them a valuable member of our team,” said Hugo’s Family Marketplace President and Chief Executive Officer Kristi Magnuson-Nelson. “Being able to provide job training and careers to individuals with disabilities is something that has been integral to our mission for many years.”
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Other nominees for VR Employer of the Year award that received honorable mention included Hugo’s Family Marketplace, Jamestown.
The statewide You Make a Difference Award honors one business for providing work experience opportunities for students with disabilities that support, develop and inspire them to achieve their goals in a competitive and integrated employment setting.
Minot Automotive Company was recognized for providing students with disabilities work or job shadowing opportunities in the field of automotive technology. They also work with local high schools to provide learning opportunities for students.
Other nominees for the Make a Difference Award included Two Rivers Activity Center, Jamestown.
Information about Vocational Rehabilitation services is available online at
hhs.nd.gov/vr
or by calling (701) 328-8950, toll-free (800) 755-2745, 711 (TTY) or emailing
.