May 1968
“Challenge industries, Inc. was formed as a [private, not-for-profit] corporation. This vocation Rehabilitation Center is a non-profit organization established in Tompkins County and incorporated in New York State. The major goals of the corporation are to provide all disabled individuals with the necessary evaluation, job training programs, job counseling services that would lead to realistic and appropriate job placement in the community.”

Challenge - the big pink1974
Challenge Industries relocated to its new home, 402 E. State St., formerly Ithaca Textiles, Inc.

 

 

  1977
Challenge’s workshop consists of a bottle washing operation, a mailroom, a print shop, a thrift store, a wood shop and a janitorial service.
  1986
Challenge signs a contract to operate the Egbert Union Dishrooms at Ithaca College; the beginning of a long-term enclave program.
Community Beautification landscaping Service - Program Participants working on the flower beds by Challenge 1987
Challenge and a local landscaper create a new landscaping service using program participants.
Computers lines up ready for students 1990
A computer skills lab is created to teach the important skills involved in the modern workplace.
1993
Microfilming service begins in cooperation with Cornell University.
 

1994
Challenge initiates a strategic plan that focuses on the development of a broad range of programs and option for people with disabilities, and providing greater opportunities for people with disabilities to work in integrated environments.

Challenge provides services to more that 600 people with disabilities.

Challenge partners with Tompkins County American Red Cross to form a Blood Donor Recruitment Team.

JobClub class room showing a gentleman working at the computer

1996
STEPS Program for public assistance recipients begins.
  1999
Challenge serves more individuals outside of the agency than inside. This sets Challenge apart from other vocational rehabilitation agencies in New York.
Digital Conversion Department 2004
Challenge opens its state-of-the-art Digital Services Department.
Finger Lakes Fresh Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

2005
Finger Lakes Fresh holds its grand opening for the new hydroponics lettuce operation.

 

For more information visit Finger Lakes Fresh
Challenge receiving the 2007 Not For Profit of the Year Award 2007
Challenge is Awarded the 2007 Not for Profit of the year.

Challenge Choice Participants enjoying some time in the swimming pool 2008
Challenge debuts a new program called “Challenge Choice”. Offering employment service option in accordance with day program activities, Challenge Choice enables people at Challenge to choose services such as Employment and Training, Volunteer and Community Service, Health Nutrition and much more.