EPSI

EPSI is advocating for a 1% AbilityOne set aside: ➡ Issue:  Underutilization of the AbilityOne® Program The AbilityOne® Program, one of the nation’s largest employers of people who are blind or have significant disabilities, remains underutilized within the federal government. Despite providing crucial jobs through federal procurement, it has stagnated while other socioeconomic programs have grown. ➡ Background:  In FY 2022, the federal government spent over $678 billion, yet only $3.7 billion (0.555%) was awarded through AbilityOne. The program currently employs 36,000 people with disabilities, including 2,500 veterans. A statutory 1% goal for federal agencies would boost this to over 60,000 jobs, including doubling employment for disabled veterans. ➡ Policy Recommendation:   SourceAmerica® advocates for a 1% government-wide contracting goal for AbilityOne. This would create tens of thousands of new jobs for people with disabilities and veterans. #SourceAmerica #epsi #DisabilityEmployment

EPSI is advocating to Modernizing SSI to Support People with Disabilities The SSI program supports individuals with limited income, but outdated asset and income limits discourage work and savings for people with disabilities. Current caps—unchanged since 1989—restrict individuals to $2,000 and couples to $3,000 in assets, creating barriers to financial stability. ➡  Needed Reforms:  The SSI Restoration Act and Savings Penalty Elimination Act would raise benefits, update asset limits to $10,000 for individuals and $20,000 for couples, and adjust for inflation—removing disincentives to work and allowing greater financial security. ➡  Ask:  We urge Congress to reintroduce these bills and modernize SSI. #SourceAmerica #epsi #DisabilityEmployment

EPSI is Celebrating Environmental Services (EVS) Week This week, we honor the hardworking EVS teams who keep healthcare facilities clean and safe for patients, families, and staff. Despite the challenges of recent years, their dedication and resilience in protecting us from harmful pathogens have been unwavering. Thank you for all that you do! #EVSWeek #HealthcareHeroes

Driving Change for America’s Untapped Workforce: EPSI is advocating for policies that create jobs and economic inclusion for people with disabilities. ➡ Advancing Inclusivity - Together we can amplify the voices of those with differing abilities, driving a more accessible future of work. ➡ Backing AbilityOne® - As one of the nation's largest providers of jobs for people with significant disabilities, the AbilityOne Program contributes $4 billion in goods and services annually, supporting critical missions like military readiness. Let’s build a stronger, more inclusive economy. #meaningfulcareerpath #epsi

Inclusion That Pays: How Hiring Individuals with Disabilities Drives Innovation and Delivers $2.31 ROI for Every $1 Spent by the Federal Government #employmentforall #epsi #growwithus https://lnkd.in/e5ERq_6i

Twelve years ago, we hired Judy Alexander as EPSI's first Executive Housekeeper (EH). Judy served in that position at Raymond W. Bliss Army Health Center (RWBAHC), Fort Huachuca, AZ. This week, Judy retired in an emotional and heartfelt ceremony. She was known throughout EPSI and RWBAHC for her feistiness and dedication to the mission. As a manager, she knew her numbers, maintained her resources, and stayed on budget. As a leader, she cared deeply for her employees, focused on customer service, and held the best safety ratings and lowest turnover rates in our company. Hospital staff, EPSI employees, and their families came out to wish Judy the best in this new chapter of her life. Thank you, Judy, for your commitment to excellence, to the EPSI mission, and to your RWBAHC customers. You will be missed. #epsi

Arborist Services are crucial for safety and ecological balance. When trees are removed due to disease, damage, or urban development, it's essential to minimize disruption and protect the surrounding environment’s well-being.   Having a certified arborist directing this work is imperative. Experienced arborists have the expertise and equipment necessary to safely and efficiently remove trees while minimizing risks to nearby structures, people, and vegetation. Securing permits and careful planning before and after tree removal is paramount.     Once removed, consider replanting options to maintain the urban canopy and preserve the benefits and beauty that trees provide, such as shade, air purification, and wildlife habitat. #espi #arborist #treecare

Eagle Pass, TX :: Arborist Pruning 101 - Proper pruning is essential for maintaining the health, aesthetics, and safety of trees. By following these principles, arborists can effectively prune trees enhancing health, appearance, and safety: 1) Understanding Tree Anatomy: Before pruning, it's crucial to understand the structure and growth habits of trees. This includes knowing the different parts of a tree such as branches, trunk, and crown. 2) Timing: In Texas, timing of pruning can vary depending on the species of tree. Generally, it's best to prune during the dormant season (late fall to early spring) to minimize stress and sap loss. However, dead, diseased, or hazardous branches should be pruned as soon as they are noticed regardless of the season. 3) Purpose of Pruning: There are several reasons to prune trees, including: ·  Safety: Removing dead, damaged, or diseased branches that pose a hazard. ·  Health: Promoting overall health and vigor of the tree by removing weak or crossing branches. ·  Aesthetics: Enhancing the tree's appearance by shaping its canopy. ·  Structure: Guiding the growth of the tree to develop a strong, well-balanced structure. 4) Tools: Proper tools are essential for effective pruning. These may include pruning shears, loppers, pruning saws, and pole pruners. It's important to use sharp tools to make clean cuts and minimize damage to the tree. 5) Safety Precautions: When pruning trees, always prioritize safety. Use personal protective equipment such as gloves, safety glasses, and helmets. Exercise caution when working at heights, and never prune near power lines.   Consulting an Arborist: For large or complex pruning jobs, or if you're unsure about the proper techniques, consider consulting a certified arborist. They have the expertise and experience to assess the tree's condition and provide appropriate recommendations for pruning. #epsi #arborprogram #isacertifiedarborist

Introducing EPSI’s ISA Certified Arborist, Justinian Ramos!  Hiring a Certified Arborist is important for several reasons, as they play a crucial role in the care and maintenance of trees. Here are some key reasons why hiring a certified arborist is beneficial:   1). Expertise and Knowledge: Certified Arborists have undergone specialized training and education in the field of arboriculture. They possess a deep understanding of tree biology, identification, and care techniques. This expertise allows them to make informed decisions regarding the health and well-being of trees. 2). Proper Tree Care Practices: Certified Arborists adhere to industry standards and best practices in tree care. They can assess the overall health of a tree, identify potential issues, and recommend appropriate treatments. This ensures that trees receive proper care, promoting their longevity and vitality. 3). Risk Assessment: Arborists are trained to assess the safety of trees, especially those in proximity to structures or high-traffic areas. They can identify potential hazards such as diseased or weakened branches, root issues, or unstable trees. This helps prevent accidents and property damage. 4). Disease and Pest Management: Certified Arborists are skilled in diagnosing and treating tree diseases and pest infestations. Their knowledge allows them to implement effective strategies to control and manage these issues, preserving the health of the trees and preventing the spread of diseases. 5). Pruning and Trimming: Proper pruning and trimming are essential for maintaining the structural integrity of trees and promoting healthy growth. Certified Arborists have the expertise to perform these tasks correctly, ensuring that the trees remain aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound. 6). Tree Preservation during Construction: When construction projects are underway, Certified Arborists can provide guidance on how to protect and preserve existing trees on the property. They can implement measures to minimize stress on trees, such as proper root protection and pruning techniques. 7). Tree Selection and Planting: Certified Arborists can assist in selecting appropriate tree species for specific locations and soil conditions. They can also provide guidance on proper planting techniques, helping to establish healthy trees from the beginning. 8). Arborist Reports: In some cases, Certified Arborists may be required to provide reports for tree-related issues, such as municipal permit applications, insurance claims, or legal matters. Their expertise and certification lend credibility to these reports.   By hiring a Certified Arborist, individuals and organizations can benefit from professional tree care services that prioritize the health, safety, and longevity of trees while adhering to industry standards and best practices.   #epsi #arborprogram #isacertifiedarborist

EPSI :: Prioritizing Floor Care in Educational Facilities Prioritizing floor care during school breaks and holidays has a profound impact on a school’s overall well-being and productivity. Safety: Clean floors help ensure student and staff safety. Promptly addressing spills and potential hazards and maintaining slip-resistant surfaces contribute to a secure environment, preventing accidents and injuries. Sustainability: When planning floor care during breaks, we consider eco-friendly, sustainable practices. As a CIMS-certified nonprofit agency, EPSI chooses green cleaning products and techniques. This not only aligns with our environmental values, but also promotes a healthy and responsible approach to facility management. Health and Hygiene: During the winter, educational facilities can become more susceptible to germs and allergens. Floor care cleaning and disinfection help to eliminate these hazards. A clean environment contributes to better indoor air quality, reduces the risk of illnesses and allergies, and creates a conducive space for learning. Prioritizing floor care during breaks and holidays goes beyond mere cleanliness; it helps create a vibrant, safe, and inspiring space that nurtures young minds and promotes good health. At EPSI, we embrace the opportunity to rejuvenate our educational spaces for the benefit of all.