Hardware Hank, a local business in Eagan, has been a strong supporter of ProAct and its mission to provide person-centered services that enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities in the areas of employment, life skills, and community inclusion.

The store partners with ProAct to offer work experiences for students and adults, and recently received ProAct’s 2021 Employer Partner of the Year Award.

Short-term engagements at Hardware Hank give individuals an opportunity to build skills, gain experience, and earn a wage. While Hardware Hank has opened its doors to ProAct and participants for over a decade, it has also kept the opportunity open during the pandemic, when many other businesses were not able to do so, explains ProAct Employment Development Manager Anna Cahak.

Because of its expanded partnership and many opportunities given to individuals with different abilities, ProAct selected Hardware Hank for the award.

Owner Allan Funk says he is happy to provide opportunities, and is glad they are able to help people in their employment journey. Cahak credits Funk and the Hardware Hank team in playing a pivotal role for people making the next step to exploring work.