PIBH Overview

Founded in 1956, Pennsylvania Industries for the Blind and Handicapped (PIBH) is the central nonprofit agency in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania dedicated to obtaining and developing employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities through the fulfillment of state government contracts for products and services.

Our mission is to secure employment for persons with disabilities, market products and services they provide through member agencies, and promote the general well-being of persons with disabilities.

Employment through PIBH member agencies helps persons with disabilities achieve greater economic independence, self-reliance and an enhanced quality of life through work, as well as reduce their dependency on government funded social support and services programs.

National studies have consistently shown that the majority of persons with disabilities who are able to work want to work. They want to earn their way rather than have government pay their way. They don’t want charity, they want a chance.

Unfortunately, more than two-thirds remain unemployed due to incorrect perceptions and biased attitudes, stereotyping, discrimination, misunderstanding, unfair employment practices, and barriers to accessibility.

When businesses hire persons with disabilities, they are employing individuals who are not deterred by their disabilities, but driven by their abilities. This remarkable class of worker has proven to be capable, reliable, honest, focused and extremely grateful. They are consistent in their performance, rarely absent, of high morale and are very productive, long-term employees.

PIBH member agencies include Pennsylvania Counties Associations for the Blind, Goodwill Industries, Easter Seal Society of Pennsylvania, Associations for Retarded Citizens, Rehabilitation Centers and many other similar agencies serving the employment needs of persons with disabilities.

In meeting contract requirements, no less than seventy-five percent (75%) of the workforce employed by PIBH member agencies must be individuals with visual, physical or intellectual disabilities.

PIBH offers a variety of products and services; including call centers, document imaging, storage and shredding, mailroom operations, carpet and carpet tile installation, and janitorial and grounds maintenance, and products such as clothing, office supplies, cleaning agents, and a full line of safety items custom designed for highway, construction and utility companies, municipalities, private sector contractors, the PA Department of Transportation, Turnpike Commission and other State agencies.