Allied Services Work Services Program Creates Opportunities for Local Workforce

For more than 60 years, Allied Services Integrated Health System has helped individuals with disabilities build meaningful careers while supporting businesses across Northeastern Pennsylvania. Through its Vocational Services Division’s Work Services Program, more than 500 individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities receive vocational training, paid employment opportunities, and hands-on workplace experience each year.

Since 1959, the program has provided individualized support, structured training, and employment opportunities designed to help participants develop workplace skills, build confidence, and achieve greater independence. Operating vocational centers in Scranton and at Burnley Employment & Rehabilitation Services in Stroudsburg, the program prepares individuals for success through job training, communication and social skills development, and functional life skills.

“Our goal is to provide opportunities that help individuals discover their abilities, build confidence, and achieve their personal employment goals,” said Erin Yesalavage, Director of Vocational Services in Scranton. “Many individuals transition into competitive employment within the community, while others choose to continue working in our workshops where they’ve built lasting friendships and become part of a supportive workplace family.”

For participants, the program offers more than employment. It provides opportunities to gain financial independence, develop valuable skills, and make meaningful contributions to businesses throughout the region.

“Watching someone transform as they gain new skills and confidence is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do,” Yesalavage said. “Over time, they truly flourish and realize just how much they’re capable of accomplishing.”

The Work Services Program has also built long-standing partnerships with regional employers, including Dempsey Uniform & Linen Supply in Jessup. For more than 15 years, participants have refurbished thousands of the company’s metal garment hangers each month, helping support Dempsey’s daily operations through reliable, high-quality work.

“This partnership has become an integral part of our business operations,” said Aaron Gilchrist, Operations Director at Dempsey Uniform & Linen Supply. “It’s something we depend on every day because we know we can count on Allied Services to consistently deliver high-quality work. It truly operates like a well-oiled machine.”

“Our organizations both believe in creating meaningful employment opportunities within our communities,” added Michelle McGough, Executive Director of Human Resources at Dempsey Uniform & Linen Supply. “Partnering with Allied Services allows us to support individuals with disabilities while receiving dependable, quality work that benefits our business.”

In addition to Dempsey, the Work Services Program partners with businesses across Northeastern Pennsylvania to provide manufacturing, packaging, assembly, and janitorial services. These collaborations create meaningful employment opportunities while providing companies with dependable production support.

“To me, Work Services is really about people,” said Rob Romagnolo, Director of Operations at Burnley Employment & Rehabilitation Services. “The products we make are important, but what stays with you is seeing someone gain confidence, master new skills, and realize they’re contributing to something bigger than themselves. Every day we create opportunities for people to learn, grow, and take pride in their work while also providing reliable service to our business partners.”

Allied Services continues to seek new partnerships with businesses throughout the region. Each new collaboration creates additional opportunities for individuals with disabilities to gain valuable work experience, develop lifelong skills, and achieve greater independence while providing local employers with dependable, quality services.

To learn more about the Allied Services Work Services Program, visit allied-services.org/services/community-services/vocational-services/.