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Belmont Village Senior Living's Inclusive Employment Initiative

As part of its commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace, Belmont Village Senior Living is actively expanding its innovative employment initiative aimed at individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Recognized during National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), this program highlights Belmont Village's dedication to creating meaningful job opportunities and building a diverse workforce.

At the center of this initiative is Belmont Village's five-year partnership with the Best Buddies Jobs Program. This collaboration has positioned Belmont Village as the first official jobs partner within the senior living industry for Best Buddies, an organization dedicated to providing inclusive job opportunities to individuals with IDD. Through this partnership, Belmont Village strives to identify beneficial roles within its communities and align them with the unique skills and aspirations of program participants.

Since its inception in March 2024, the partnership has evolved considerably. It began with Amanda Ramos as the first participant, and has now grown to include 14 dedicated team members across ten Belmont Village locations. According to Mercedes Kerr, President of Belmont Village Senior Living, "Fostering an inclusive workplace means more than opening the door to employment; it involves creating opportunities for individuals to build impactful careers and become integral parts of our communities."

The partnership has not only seen great success in recruiting participants but has also enriched the work environment within Belmont Village. Amanda Ramos has shared, "What makes my job at Belmont Village so special is the people. The residents treat me like family, and I try to provide that same kindness and care in return. Belmont Village has given me the opportunity to showcase my talents and be part of a community that values what everyone brings to the table."

Moreover, Belmont Village's commitment doesn't end with Best Buddies. Recently, the organization collaborated with New Horizons, a nonprofit focused on improving employment opportunities and services for individuals with IDD. This partnership led to the hiring of an additional team member for Belmont Village Burbank in California, further reinforcing Belmont Village's dedication to inclusivity in the workplace.

Belmont Village's comprehensive approach to employment encourages growth and personal development for all team members. The company offers a wide variety of roles where individuals of various abilities can thrive and connect. Employees are recognized for their unique strengths and experiences, which play vital roles in shaping the community’s culture. Everyone at Belmont Village contributes to creating a vibrant environment that ensures residents feel at home.

For more information or potential career opportunities, visit belmontvillage.com.

About Belmont Village Senior Living

Founded in 1997 in Houston, Belmont Village Senior Living has established itself as a leader in developing, owning, and operating premium senior living communities. With over 4,700 employees and 5,000 units under operation, the organization boasts 34 locations throughout the United States and in Mexico City. Known for their award-winning assisted living and memory care programs, Belmont Village partners with notable institutions such as Baptist Health South Florida, USC, and UCLA to continuously enhance their residents’ cognitive health.

Belmont Village is recognized as a Great Place to Work® and has been included in FORTUNE Magazine's list of the 50 Best Workplaces for Aging Services since 2018, while also being lauded by U.S. News & World Report as one of the Best in Senior Living.

About Best Buddies International

Best Buddies is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that creates opportunities for friendships, employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for individuals with IDD. Founded in 1989, it has expanded from one chapter to over 4,000 around the globe, with programs impacting more than 1.5 million individuals each year across 50 states and 47 countries.