Kessler Foundation Ranks Among ‘Best Nonprofits to Work For’ in the United States

Annual NonProfit Times ranking recognizes organization’s exemplary leadership for third consecutive year

Badge denotes Kessler Foundation Award for best non-profit to work for.East Hanover, NJ – April 28, 2025 – Kessler Foundation, known for its work in disability rehabilitation research, has earned national recognition as one of the Best Nonprofits to Work For. This marks the third consecutive year and the tenth time since 2013 that Kessler Foundation has been honored with this prestigious award.

The annual award honors the top 50 nonprofit organizations across the country for exceptional workplace practices and employee satisfaction. Kessler Foundation was celebrated in the medium-sized category, as an organization with almost 200 employees.

“We are deeply honored to receive this recognition, which affirms our ongoing commitment to creating a workplace that supports and values every member of our team,” said Rodger DeRose, president and chief executive officer of Kessler Foundation. “Our mission to improve the lives of people with disabilities is powered by our dedicated staff members. Their passion, innovation, and teamwork enable us to make a meaningful impact. Being recognized for three years in a row reflects how our strong organizational culture fosters both personal growth and professional achievement,” DeRose emphasized.

Kessler Foundation conducts groundbreaking research on disability rehabilitation, offers postdoctoral training, and develops educational programming for clinicians, scientists, policymakers, and the disability community. Through its grantmaking initiatives, the Foundation also serves as a catalyst for improving employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities.

The Best Nonprofits to Work For program uses a two-part assessment process to evaluate nominees. The first stage involves a review of an organization’s policies, practices, philosophy, and demographics. The second component is an anonymous employee survey that weighs heavily in the final evaluation, accounting for 75 percent of the total score. Combined results determine each nonprofit’s rank.


About Kessler Foundation
Kessler Foundation, founded in 1985, is a New Jersey-based nonprofit and global leader in rehabilitation research committed to changing the lives of people with disabilities. By conducting groundbreaking research, Kessler Foundation advances recovery and fosters independence to build a more inclusive and accessible world.

Its team of award-winning scientists develop and test novel interventions to transform care and optimize mobility, cognition, and quality of life for people with traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis, autism, and other neurological and developmental disabilities. By analyzing community and workforce participation, developing evidence-based solutions, and funding impactful community initiatives that expand employment opportunities, Kessler Foundation also addresses barriers to inclusion for people with disabilities.

Powered by a dedicated team of over 200 professionals funded by federal and state grants and private philanthropy, Kessler Foundation is redefining what is possible in rehabilitation care and recovery.

For more information, visit KesslerFoundation.org.

For more information, contact:
Michele Pignatello, Michele Pignatello

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