Williston child care provider creates inclusive workforce 
With the need for quality, licensed child care in Williston, Amy Giordano is making an impact on children of all abilities and their families while helping create an inclusive workforce.
“I was a young working mom who needed child care that would accommodate my kids who had medical needs, and it was really hard for me,” she said. “I wanted to find a way to be a good mom, provide for my family and build a community.”
That’s when Amy’s Angels was born in Giordano’s home.
Fast forward 12 years and Amy’s Angels has expanded, moved to a new location and is now a licensed child care center providing care for nearly 60 children. Amy’s Angels works with parents to accommodate children with special needs.
“I’ve even learned how to cook tofu for a child,” she said. “We make sure that every child is taken care of, no matter their needs. Everyone is thriving, functioning, learning and growing here.”
Hiring made easy
When it came time to hire more staff, Giordano used traditional methods to try and attract workers. A simple phone call from the Williston VR office opened a new door that would make her workforce even more inclusive.
“I said absolutely, let’s do it,” she said.
A VR counselor and a client who was interested in working in child care did an on-site visit with Giordano. They all discussed necessary accommodations, job responsibilities and requirements to ensure successful placement for everyone.
To meet Amy’s Angels needs, VR tailored its services for the client. They helped the client get a fingerprint-based background check, complete required online training and become pediatric first aid and CPR certified.
Creating an inclusive workforce
Even though Giordano has team members with varying abilities, this was the first time she worked with VR.
“It was a very easy process and a great experience. I would do it again in a heartbeat,” she said. “We share a lot of the same vison of connecting people and creating community for people. It has been a very positive experience for the children in my care, their families, my staff and for me.”
Giordano encourages all North Dakota businesses to consider working with VR to solve their part-time or full-time workforce needs.
“People with disabilities have a ton to offer,” she said.
If you are looking to expand your workforce or have questions on how to expand your workforce, contact Vocational Rehabilitation or call toll-free at (800) 755-2745.