As one of the largest employers in Northeast Florida, we’re proud to be a part of a community that embraces people of all backgrounds and abilities, and we’re passionate about creating an inclusive workplace. The VyStar Visionary Employment Program (VVEP) puts that passion into action, helping us promote equity and inclusion in our offices and branches.
Partnering with Local Nonprofits
By joining forces with local nonprofits, we’re able to connect with candidates of different abilities and backgrounds and provide career opportunities that match their skills and talents. Through our relationship with The Arc Jacksonville, we’ve successfully hired employees who have intellectual and developmental differences (IDD), while our partnerships with Operation New Hope and Catholic Charities have led to employment opportunities for people who have been incarcerated or are facing other difficult life situations.
The VyStar Visionary Employment Program (VVEP)
Unlike traditional hiring processes, VVEP includes job training, case management and life coaching as part of its strategy for successfully integrating new employees from these underserved groups into the workplace. VVEP also provides these individuals with better opportunities to show their talents, improve their skills and explore their potential.
Our New Employees
So far, we’ve hired four new employees through the VVEP. Robbie Culliton and Kelly Suddath were both hired through The Arc Jacksonville and currently work at the VyStar Tower downtown. Robbie works as our Tower Host and Kelly as a Mailroom Clerk.
“You might interact with Robbie when you first enter the building, as he works in the lobby and greets people. It was important for us to work with the individuals at The Arc who know Robbie best and could help us understand how to interact with him personally,” said Brian Wolfburg, President and CEO of VyStar.
Russell Baker was hired through Operation New Hope and Shelton Owens was hired through Catholic Charities. They both work as on-site Facilities Support Technicians, travelling to our local branches to make repairs and improvements.
The “20 in 20” Pledge
There are similar employment initiatives happening right in our neighborhood. In 2020, the JAX Chamber and Connectable launched the “20 in 20” campaign to inspire local businesses to hire employees with IDD. As a supporter of this program, we’re excited to take part in Connectable’s Shopability Saturday — a citywide event that recognizes more than 150 businesses across Jacksonville that eliminate barriers and provide opportunities for underserved individuals.
“We believe in supporting our community. VyStar, and credit unions as a whole, are about people helping people,” said Brian. “This campaign is just one more way that we connect with our community.”