At the front desk of Wildwood offices, you may find Tammy Fritz making a positive impact on others. As the first face her colleagues see each morning, Tammy says her job goes far beyond administrative duties.

"I try to keep a smile on my face when they come to the door," Fritz said.

It’s also where she’s building the kind of independent life she wants to lead. Fritz has been in an assistant role for a year and a half.

Office manager Andrea Lawyer says between Fritz's natural talents – particularly, her people skills – and the job development coaching she receives, it's a perfect fit for everyone involved.

"I definitely think it shows that it is possible, and it shows what Wildwood is about and that we can achieve that goal of getting the individuals out in the community to have jobs and be a member of society just like everyone else,” Lawyer said. “That's why I really enjoy working here, too, because it just that whole image of inclusivity and it is just fantastic."

Inclusivity is at the heart of Wildwood's partnerships with workplaces in a variety of industries including healthcare, manufacturing, and technology. They say they pride themselves on connecting businesses in the Capital Region with qualified jobseekers living with disabilities who receive Wildwoods job-assistance services.

"From even an economic sense, Wildwood isn't just nice, although it is. And it's not just great for people with disabilities, which it is,” said Wildwood Director of Communications Tom Schreck. “It strengthens our entire community because we all get to be stronger. So it's not just the right thing to do. It makes sense.”

Fritz also helps with orientation of new employees, helping them to understand the needs of those with disabilities. She says while it hasn't been easy, it's been worth it. On top of finding meaning in her career, the paycheck she receives has enabled Fritz to become a homeowner.

"I just kept learning. Keep pushing, and don't let anybody stop you because you’re going to have roadblocks. And I had roadblocks. Keep going. Don't give up and just keep pushing," Fritz said.