Community Foundation Honors Human Technologies with Community Impact Award

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties presented its Community Impact Award to Human Technologies (HT) on June 26, 2025. The Community Impact Award celebrates, rewards, and encourages outstanding achievement in the charitable sector and is presented to a nonprofit organization serving Herkimer and/or Oneida counties that has shown outstanding service to its constituents.
 
Human Technologies creates employment opportunities for people with differing abilities by developing, investing in, and growing their business lines including environmental facilities management, apparel and equipment supply chain, uniform management services, and manufacturing and packaging operations. Established in 1954 and founded with a mission to provide jobs to veterans and those with disabilities, the organization employs nearly 450 people throughout New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Northern Virginia, and generates tens of millions in annual revenue.
 
“Human Technologies is a great example of what is possible when you think outside of the box,” said Alicia Dicks, president/CEO of the Community Foundation. “The opportunities they are creating are keeping talent in our community, attracting investment locally, and contributing to the revitalization of our region, which is something we always talk about. We’re honored to present them with the Community Impact Award.”
 
The relationship between Human Technologies and the Community Foundation dates back to 1960. Since then, the Foundation has awarded more than $85,000 in grants to support HT’s mission, including funding to grow its facilities management services. Over the years, HT has developed a sustainable business model that generates multiple revenue streams while staying true to its people-centered mission.
 
"This award from the Community Foundation celebrates our work, and more importantly shines a spotlight on what’s possible when inclusion, purpose, and business come together," said Carl Reistrom, president/CEO of Human Technologies. "At Human Technologies, we remain steadfast in our mission to break down barriers and create opportunities that empower people with differing abilities to thrive in work and in life. It shows that our model works—that when you lead with purpose, build with intention, and believe in people, real impact follows. We’re grateful to the Community Foundation for standing with us and sharing our vision of shifting perceptions while creating a more equitable and resilient region. This recognition affirms the impact meaningful work can make for individuals, families, and the communities we call home."
 
Past Community Impact Award recipients include Arc Herkimer, Community Transportation Services, Compassion Coalition, Hope House, Johnson Park Center, LivingADK, Sitrin Healthcare, SUNY Poly’s FIRST LEGO League, Thea Bowman House, and Young Scholars.