Fresno County Honors Pleasant Mattress for Job Creation Efforts

Fresno County supervisors acknowledged Pleasant Mattress for its significant role in facilitating employment for individuals participating in county assistance programs. During a meeting on March 5, 2024, the supervisors highlighted the company’s commitment to workforce reintegration and community support.

The New Employment Opportunities (NEO) program, managed by the Department of Social Services and the Fresno County Economic Development Corporation (EDC), aims to assist individuals on CalWorks and other welfare programs in finding stable employment. Companies that participate in this initiative can receive wage reimbursement for the initial months of training, which has proven beneficial for local businesses like Pleasant Mattress.

According to Kathi McIntyre, human resources manager at Pleasant Mattress, the company has employed 32 individuals through this program in various roles, including truck drivers and assembly line workers. McIntyre emphasized the importance of work for individuals, stating, “Getting back in the workforce, being a productive member of society, getting up and having a purpose every day is really important to people.”

Pleasant Mattress, located in southwest Fresno, has been operational for over 60 years and remains a family-owned business, currently in its third generation. This longstanding commitment to the community is evident in their production process, which McIntyre noted includes crafting all mattresses “from scratch.”

Impact of the NEO Program

The NEO program has significantly impacted employment in the region, helping approximately 2,500 individuals secure jobs since its launch in 2015. The program offers financial support to employers, covering 100% of wages for the first three months and 75% for an additional three months. As a result, participating businesses have received about $25 million in wage reimbursements.

Will Oliver, president of the EDC, explained that the program not only connects skilled workers with local companies but also provides financial incentives that aid businesses. “When companies hire from this program, they not only access skilled talent but also receive wage reimbursements that serve as an incentive and a source of working capital to support their companies,” Oliver stated.

The initiative has seen success across various sectors, with local manufacturers, offices, and retailers participating. The website Ready2Hire.org plays a crucial role in connecting job seekers with potential employers, further enhancing the program’s reach.

Success Stories and Future Prospects

Pleasant Mattress has witnessed several employees advance in their careers or even launch their own businesses. McIntyre shared that some individuals have transitioned to higher positions, while others have taken entrepreneurial steps, such as a former truck driver who started his own trucking company. This success reflects the positive ripple effect of the NEO program within the community.

As organizations like Pleasant Mattress continue to engage in initiatives that promote job creation, the impact on the local economy can be profound. The collaboration between businesses and community support programs not only empowers individuals but also strengthens the fabric of the community, fostering a sense of purpose and belonging among its members.