Aspiritech, an Evanston-based nonprofit that employs and trains neurodivergent professionals, hosted a Red Vest volunteer day on Thursday, Oct. 15, to prepare its headquarters for renovation. Aspiritech staff and volunteers from Lincolnwood Lowe’s, led by Berenice Mendoza, packed up the Chicago Avenue office, moved equipment and prepared the space for small-scale demolition.
The renovation will reshape the office to accommodate the needs and safety of Aspiritech’s workforce. As well as making critical building repairs and meeting ADA compliance standards, the project aims to create a more neurodivergent-friendly environment for Aspiritech’s team members, 90% of whom are autistic. The project is funded by a $150,000 Lowe’s Community Impact Grant awarded to Aspiritech earlier this year.
The day entailed more than packing boxes and moving furniture. Between tasks, Lowe’s volunteers and Aspiritech team members traded stories, discussed Aspiritech’s mission of meaningful employment for autistic adults and shared plenty of laughter.
“Lowe’s Community Impact experience is more than just a grant,” Aspiritech CEO Tara May said. “It’s truly Lowe’s making a difference and bringing community, business, and service together — with people at the heart.”
Aspiritech is completing the renovation in partnership with Design To Finish and continued support from Lincolnwood Lowe’s. The grant is part of the Lowe’s Community Impact Program’s five-year, $100 million commitment to revitalizing hometowns.
“Being part of Red Vest Day at Aspiritech was a meaningful experience. It felt great to give back and know that even small efforts, like packing boxes and moving furniture, can make a big difference. Knowing we’re helping create a more welcoming, accessible space where people can grow and succeed made this experience even more special. We’re proud to represent Lowe’s and be part of something that truly impacts our community,” Store Manager Berenice Mendoza said.
Aspiritech is an Evanston-based nonprofit that employs neurodivergent professionals in quality assurance, accessibility testing, cybersecurity and more. Through Aspiritech Academy, the organization also offers career training that prepares autistic and neurodivergent adults for meaningful work in technology and other in-demand sectors.
MEDIA CONTACT: Tabitha Lyon, Aspiritech Director of Mission Growth and Fundraising, tabitha.lyon@aspiritech.org
