Kane County Grant Supports Little Friends’ Manufacturing Camp for Young Adults with Disabilities
Little Friends, Inc. hosted an 8-week SparkForce Inclusion Manufacturing Camp this summer, giving young adults with disabilities the chance to explore hands-on manufacturing careers, develop job skills, and connect with local employers.
This initiative is part of a national program funded by SparkForce, the charitable foundation of the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association (FMA). SparkForce and Little Friends also received support from the Kane County Manufacturing Grant Program, funded by the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
The camp brought together local service organizations and manufacturing partners to empower high school and transition-age youth with disabilities by building job readiness, confidence, and career awareness in manufacturing.
“This camp is about more than just learning skills—it’s about opening doors for an inclusive future workforce and introducing them to employment opportunities they may not have considered before,” said Cassidy Kaput, Little Friends Director of Employment Services. 
Camp highlights included:
Behind-the-scenes tours and hands-on experiences at local companies such as Premium Custom Products, Amsted Auto, ATI, Flexco, West Side Tractor, SkyJack, and more.
Career exploration and soft skills training.
Safety awareness training and competency credentialing.
“This summer I learned how to work as a team and stay positive in the classroom,” said one participant. Another added, “This camp is helping me become successful so I can find a major and career in manufacturing.” 
The SparkForce Inclusion Manufacturing Camp at Little Friends is one of many nationwide camps focused on fostering inclusive opportunities in manufacturing and preparing tomorrow’s workforce.
About Little Friends
Founded in 1965, Little Friends is a human services agency operating schools, vocational training programs, residential opportunities, respite family services, and the Little Friends Center for Autism. Its mission is to empower people of all ages experiencing autism, intellectual, and emotional disabilities—and their families—to live, learn, work, and thrive in their communities. Visit www.littlefriendsinc.org.
About SparkForce
Formerly known as Nuts, Bolts & Thingamajigs (NBT), SparkForce is the charitable foundation of the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association. Through a nationwide network of camps and scholarships, SparkForce inspires and supports the next generation pursuing meaningful manufacturing careers.
