SAN ANGELO, TX — West Texas Counseling and Guidance has been named a 2025 Lex Frieden Employment Award winner by Governor Greg Abbott for its commitment to hiring and supporting individuals with disabilities in the workplace.
The San Angelo-based nonprofit received the honor in the “Nonprofit Employer” category as part of a statewide recognition program administered through a partnership between the Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities and the Texas Workforce Commission.
"West Texas Counseling and Guidance has demonstrated exceptional leadership in building an inclusive workforce that reflects its mission of compassion and service," information states. "Growing from just 12 employees in 2012 to over 120 today, WTCG has intentionally recruited and retained individuals with disabilities, with approximately 35% of its workforce self-identifying as having a disability, including many disabled veterans. Employees with disabilities serve in diverse roles—from leadership and IT to counselors, case managers, and therapists—bringing lived experience that enhances trust and effectiveness in service delivery.
"WTCG goes far beyond ADA requirements by offering tailored accommodations such as flexible scheduling, specialized office equipment, and access to on-site therapy and peer support," the information reads. "The organization also fosters a culture of wellness and belonging through mentorship, trauma-informed supervision, and leadership development opportunities. Through these efforts, WTCG not only empowers its employees but also strengthens its impact on the community. WTCG proves that valuing the many contributions of its diverse employees creates better outcomes for all."
Winners will be recognized during the Lex Frieden Employment Awards – HireAbility Employer Forum, scheduled for Oct. 2, 2025, at Morgan’s Wonderland in San Antonio. The forum will feature presentations from disability advocates, business leaders, and Americans with Disabilities Act experts on best practices for inclusive employment. Continuing education credit will be available for human resource professionals.
"In life, we are not defined by the challenges that we face but by how we respond to those challenges," said Governor Abbott. "When a life-changing accident over 40 years ago left me paralyzed, I made the decision to not let my life be defined by the enormous challenge that I faced. Texas businesses do just that by empowering their employees, co-workers, and fellow Texans with disabilities. I applaud those who encourage independence, productivity, and self-determination and congratulate the winners of this year’s Lex Frieden Employment Awards for their work to hire and support Texans with disabilities. Working together, we will create a brighter, more inclusive future for all Texans in our great state.”
Other 2025 award recipients include:
-
Small Employer: Mermaid Café, San Antonio
-
Medium Employer: DHL-Nike, Hutchins
-
Large Employer: City of Brownsville
-
Entrepreneur: Kristen McNabb Pattison, Fort Sam Houston
-
Martha Arbuckle Award: Pharr Police Department – Mental Health Unit
-
Governor’s Trophy: Judy Telge, Corpus Christi
In addition, the Chairman’s Commendation was awarded to the Texas Veterans Commission, Rusty Bourland of Austin, and Cord Shiflet of Austin.
The awards coincide with the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, which takes place in October. Governor Abbott has issued a proclamation formally recognizing the observance in Texas.
The Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities promotes inclusion, recommends policy changes, and issues awards to increase awareness and compliance with disability-related laws.
For more information or to attend the forum, visit: bit.ly/TXHireAbility2025.
Read more about the 2025 Lex Frieden Award winners here.
Subscribe to the LIVE! Daily
Required
Post a comment to this article here: