Elbeco Inc. received the 2009 State Use Program Partnership Award for its work with Headwaters, Inc., a not-for-profit work/rehabilitation center that helps people with developmental and physical disabilities find gainful employment. Elbeco and Headwaters partnered on a contract to provide the State of Wisconsin with correctional officer uniforms. Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle presented the award in a ceremony at the state capitol July 9.

In a letter to Elbeco, Wisconsin State Use Board chairperson Dale Dumke wrote, “The Board believes this type of contractual partnering creates a basis for economic growth and good works by improving standards of living and advancing causes important to the well-being of Wisconsinites.”

“We’re honored to receive this award,” said Elbeco president David Lurio. “It’s a pleasure and a privilege for us to work with Headwaters to give disabled people the opportunity to meet their own potential. This partnership—along with our domestic production facilities, our hundreds of union-represented employees, and our membership in the SweatFree Coalition—illustrates our appreciation for and commitment to America’s rich manufacturing heritage as well as the communities that we serve.”

Elbeco is committed to design and manufacturing excellence. In the past year, the company has revolutionized women’s uniforms through its Ladies Choice design, created the industry’s best fitting trouser through innovative fabric and waistband combinations in its DutyMaxx and Prestige lines, and introduced the first FR line certified to the newest NFPA standards.