About Us

Mission

To create opportunities for people with barriers to economic well-being.

 

History

In the spring of 1935, a chance meeting of three men with physical disabilities in New York City’s Times Square led them to change a world.

Michael Bertero, Ralph Rice and Robert Boster had struggled to make ends meet during the Great Depression. Shut out of the workforce by a society that did not believe people facing barriers could work, they set out to change misperceptions and attitudes by proving that people with barriers could be productive workers. They founded the Federation of the Crippled and Disabled, based in the principles of work, dignity and achieving economic independence. It was the first organization in the country run by, and providing services to, people with disabilities.

Today, more than 90 years later, Fedcap honors this distinguished history. With courage, resolve, innovation and creativity, we have made a deep and lasting impact on the field of vocational rehabilitation, and in the lives of tens of thousands of individuals and their families. Through our own businesses and our graduates who work elsewhere, Fedcap is known widely for top-quality employees, products and services.

Fedcap, its staff, its communities and its many partners remain committed to its mission and continued growth. Our future looks very bright indeed.