Altius Link Shines at Abilympics Yamagata 2026
Altius Link Inc., based in Shibuya, Tokyo, continues to make remarkable strides in promoting employment for individuals with disabilities through its specialized department, the Yamagata Green Unit. On July 2, 2026, the team participated in the 24th Yamagata Prefecture Disability Skill Competition, also known as the Abilympics Yamagata 2026, securing both the Outstanding Award and the Skill Award in the Building Cleaning category. This achievement has also earned the team a spot at the 46th National Abilympics, set to take place from December 4-6, 2026, in Aichi Prefecture.
Focus on Empowerment and Community Engagement
At Altius Link, the commitment to staffing is evident, with approximately 800 employees with disabilities contributing across various sectors, including contact centers nationwide. The Yamagata Green Unit, specifically designed for the empowerment of workers with disabilities, emphasizes not only skill development through agricultural and cleaning tasks but also maintaining a close connection with the local community. Over the past four years, this unit has actively participated in the Abilympics, creating opportunities to enhance workers' skills and confidence.
This year, seven staff members entered the Building Cleaning category, honing their skills through daily responsibilities and team practices. Collaborations were established with Yamagata University’s Affiliated Special Support School and Ueyama High School for inclusive training sessions. These partnerships allowed participants to share techniques and learn from one another in a spirit of camaraderie. The integration of these essential practices culminated in winning the Outstanding Award, thus granting entry to the national event. Additionally, the Skill Award was presented to a staff member who achieved this honor for three consecutive years, showcasing the group’s consistent progress.
Voices of Achievement
The achievements of team members reflect their unwavering dedication. Shota Saito, the recipient of the Outstanding Award, expressed, "I focused on meticulous cleaning during work and practiced to finish within the time limits during training. Collaborating with students from local schools deepened my understanding of the importance of tailored coaching, which I aim to apply in our team communications moving forward. I will strive for a stellar performance at the national competition."
Minetaka Yokota, awarded the Skill Award, remarked on his experiences, saying, "This marked my fourth participation, and I felt a sense of fulfillment collaborating with my peers to enhance our skills. I will continue to work hard daily to ensure I can compete again next year."
Continuous Improvement and Support
The management of the Yamagata Green Unit, which adjusts training methods based on past performances, has implemented a revised manual and introduced individual training logs to foster teamwork in this endeavor. Saito's ability to mentor fellow team members while competing epitomizes the dedication of the team, which addresses challenges collaboratively. They take pride in this achievement and remain focused on fostering an environment where every member can realize their potential.
The upcoming 46th National Abilympics promises to further highlight the talents of these dedicated individuals. Here are the details:
Event Details:
- - Date: December 4-6, 2026
- - Location: Aichi Sky Expo, Tokoname, Aichi Prefecture
- - Organiser: Japan Organization for Employment of the Elderly, Persons with Disabilities, and Job Seekers
- - Official Website: National Abilympics Official Site
For further insights into Altius Link's initiatives and progress, visit their corporate page or contact their press relations via provided email addresses. Their ongoing support reflects a keen commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities, encapsulating a spirit of resilience and community integration.