This honor celebrates Target’s exemplary commitment to inclusive employment and its long-standing partnership supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).
Target’s relationship with DDI’s employment program began in 2013, and from the very beginning, the Commack team has embodied what true inclusion looks like. The individuals who joined the team through our program over a decade ago remain proud and valued Target employees today, an extraordinary testament to the company’s dedication not just to hiring, but to ongoing support, retention, and career growth.
The commitment is best captured by one powerful story: when one supported individual began his Target career as a stock associate under Mr. Mahoney’s leadership, the Commack team welcomed him with openness, collaboration, and respect. They worked closely with our employment specialist, inviting on-site support and shaping a customized training plan to help him succeed. As his confidence grew, so did his ambitions and the Target team was right there with him.
They encouraged him to expand his skills, first training him on the register and later helping him learn the self-checkout system. Target of Commack demonstrated unwavering trust by eventually offering him full-time hours.
Today, he continues to thrive, receiving steady hours, constructive feedback, and ongoing opportunities to grow. His recognition as Employee of the Month was a proud moment for everyone who has supported his journey. Even more inspiring, he now trains new employees, a full-circle achievement that reflects both his dedication and Target’s belief in his potential. With goals to expand into new departments and eventually pursue leadership roles, he is fully supported through cross-training and mentorship from the Commack team.
We are proud to congratulate Target Corporation and especially the Commack location on being selected as New York State’s Employer Recognition Award winner. This honor is richly deserved, and we look forward to celebrating many more years of partnership and success.