20 years of supporting the blind and disabled

  • Published
  • By Chris Willis
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  On Aug. 26, the Ability One Base Supply Program celebrated its 20th anniversary here at the base supply store. The program is the single largest source of jobs for individuals who are blind or have significant disabilities in the United States.

Todd Hobart, senior director of base supply center store operations, gave the introduction speech at the event.

"As the Ability One Base Supply Program celebrates its 20th anniversary, this is to remind the workforce of the opportunity to utilize the base supply centers," said Hobart. "They are much more than just an office supply store."

There are 152 Ability One base supply centers currently in operation across the country. These stores employ 248 blind or visually impaired individuals.

Tray Cook, who was born with vision disabilities, has worked for the base supply center for five years and spoke of how the company's program has improved his life.

"Over the years, the center has helped me tremendously, but more importantly it has given me responsibility and success," said Cook. "My self-esteem has risen since working here and now I'm looking at getting pre-approved for a house, which is something I never dreamed I would achieve."

Col. Steven Folds, 341st Missile Wing vice commander, gave praise to Cook for his efforts.

"I am motivated and inspired by Tray," said Folds. "You do the behind the scenes logistical and supply mission that ensures that we are able to forward deploy and take care of business. Let me say, thank you, and we appreciate what you do not only for the nation but the Airmen here at Malmstrom."

Debby Walker, base service center store manager, also talked about the program and how it has impacted her and her employees. 

"As a mother of a child that is visually impaired, this company means so much to me," said Walker. "Tray has been with us since he graduated high school. I'm very happy and proud of him."

Nearly 50,000 people are employed by Ability One. More than 3,000 of them are military veterans and Wounded Warriors returning to the work force.

"Over the years, the base supply center program has succeeded in providing jobs for people who are blind and severely disabled," said Hobart. "Many of these are local residents who would otherwise have few opportunities for employment."