For over five decades, Proudworks has been changing lives across Northern Kentucky—helping individuals with disabilities and other challenges discover their potential, gain meaningful employment, access transportation, and build confidence through work. What began in 1973 as the Boone Adult Work Activity Center (BAWAC) has grown into a cornerstone nonprofit serving the region. Today, Proudworks is entering an exciting new chapter marked by a refreshed brand, newly renovated space, and a season of community events that celebrate both its history and its future.

The recent rebranding from BAWAC to Proudworks reflects the heart of its mission: transforming barriers into opportunities for people with disabilities, or other challenges, by empowering them with services to live, learn, work, and thrive in the community.  The new name also reflects the organization’s expanded range of services as well as the number of counties the organization has been serving across the region since its original inception. 

That renewed sense of pride is also reflected in recent renovations to the Proudworks facility, creating a modern, welcoming environment for clients, staff, volunteers, and community partners. The improvements enhance the workspace while better showcasing the organization’s growing programs and partnerships with local businesses.

To celebrate these exciting updates, Proudworks will host a Community Open House on Tuesday, May 20. The event is open to anyone in the community and will be offered during two convenient timeframes:

1:00–3:00 PM  See Us in Action!

4:30–6:30 PM After Hours: Networking with a Purpose

Guests can tour the renovated facility, meet the incredible clients and staff behind the Proudworks mission, and learn how Proudworks partners with businesses across the region to create meaningful employment opportunities. 

“Our mission has always been about creating opportunities and removing barriers,” Proudworks President & CEO Jason Ashbrook shared. “The new space reflects the pride our clients take in their work and the pride we have in serving them every day, while honoring the powerful legacy of our founding President & CEO Ken Schmidt”  

Work That Builds Confidence and Meets Community Needs

Proudworks’ clients are building skills and accessing work supports through programs that include job training, community employment, life-skills development, transportation, and production, packaging and fulfillment services.  Proudworks partners with local businesses to meet production and workforce needs while empowering individuals to reach their full potential, demonstrating the value of hiring individuals with disabilities. Although some employers view individuals with disabilities as a potential risk to their company, the data proves otherwise.  Companies see an overall increase in employee retention, a reduction in workplace safety issues, and an increase of 25% in productivity when hiring individuals with disabilities (according to Disability:IN and Forbes.com).

For many Proudworks’ clients, the experience is life changing.

“When I first came to Proudworks, I was very anxious and shy, but they worked with me in a way that I felt supported and heard. Now I work in retail. I love what I do, and I love coming to work.”
— Susina, Proudworks client

Stories like Susina’s reflect the heart of Proudworks’ mission—and the dedication of staff members who mentor, coach, and support every client along the way.  

A Mission-driven Golf Outing with a Special Host

Community support has long played a vital role in sustaining Proudworks’ programs. One of the organization’s most beloved traditions is the Proudworks Annual Charity Golf Outing, returning this year on June 9 at Boone Links Golf & Event Center.

The outing brings together golfers, business leaders, and longtime supporters for a day of friendly competition, networking, and philanthropy. Teams and sponsorship opportunities are still available, and community partners are encouraged to participate while supporting meaningful employment opportunities for the individuals Proudworks serves. Proceeds from the event directly fund programs that provide meaningful work and life-enriching services for Proudworks clients.

For more than two decades, the event has been hosted by Emmy Award-winning Olympic broadcaster Lewis Johnson, a Cincinnati native whose connection to Proudworks runs deep. Johnson has supported the charity golf outing for many years, inspired in part by his brother’s experience as a Proudworks client.

Johnson’s continued support has helped make the outing not only a successful fundraiser, but also a meaningful gathering of community and purpose.

Christmas in July: A Summer Event with Holiday Impact

Another highlight of the summer is Proudworks’ “Christmas in July” with the Florence Y’alls. This family-friendly evening at the ballpark combines baseball, holiday cheer, and community spirit.

Proceeds from the event help Proudworks provide holiday gifts for the individuals it serves, ensuring every client experiences the joy and dignity of being remembered and celebrated during the holiday season.

For many of the individuals Proudworks serves, these gifts are more than material items – they are reminders that our community cares deeply about them.

Looking Ahead

While Proudworks proudly celebrates 53 years of service in 2026— the organization is building upon its legacy through program innovation and expansion to help meet the increasing needs throughout the community. The new brand, renovated facility, strategic plan, and growing partnerships with local businesses all reflect a commitment to expanding opportunity for the individuals Proudworks serves, while strengthening the collective impact to our region’s workforce while promoting a more resilient community.  

When people are given the chance to participate in the workforce and experience a sense of belonging, the impact extends far beyond one organization- it strengthens the entire Northern Kentucky community and underscores Proudworks’ tagline: Quality Work, Quality Life.  

Upcoming Proudworks Community Events

Community Open House
May 20 (two options available)
1:00–3:00 PM or
4:30–6:30 PM
Open to anyone in the community. Tour the renovated Proudworks facility and meet the people behind the mission.

Annual Charity Golf Outing
June 9
Boone Links Golf & Event Center
Register or sponsor:
PWGO2026.givesmart.com

Christmas in July with the Florence Y’alls
Supporting holiday gifts for Proudworks clients
PWXMASJULY2026.givesmart.com

For more information, visit Proudworks.org