Tyler ISD, in partnership with the Texas Workforce Commission Vocational Rehabilitation Services, proudly recognizes Manny’s Tex Mex as the September 2026 B.R.I.D.G.E. Partner of the Month. This recognition celebrates Manny’s commitment to providing meaningful, real-world work experiences for students participating in the LINK 18+ program.
B.R.I.D.G.E. stands for Businesses Reaching Individuals Determined to Gain Employment. Through partnerships with local businesses like Manny’s Tex Mex, Tyler ISD and Texas Workforce Commission Vocational Rehabilitation Services help young adults with all abilities gain practical work experience and prepare for greater independence and employment success beyond high school.
Through this ongoing partnership, LINK 18+ interns are building valuable workplace skills while making a difference in the daily operations of Manny’s. From sweeping and mopping floors to wiping down tables and chairs, disinfecting highchairs, cleaning windows, maintaining the front desk area, and watering plants on the outdoor patio, students are learning the importance of responsibility, consistency, and taking pride in their work.
The LINK job coach shared that Manny’s provides a welcoming work environment where students can develop a variety of skills throughout the restaurant, while enjoying their hands-on work experiences.
That welcoming environment is what makes this partnership so meaningful. By practicing authentic workplace tasks, students can apply what they have learned in the classroom, strengthen their independence, and build the confidence and experience needed to pursue future employment.
And the appreciation goes both ways.
The assistant manager at Manny’s Tex Mex shared that the restaurant appreciates having LINK students and their job coach back this year, noting that the students help maintain a clean, welcoming environment while gaining valuable hands-on job skills.
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), and this year’s national theme, “Celebrating Value and Talent,” is a message worth celebrating all year long. Through B.R.I.D.G.E. partnerships like the one with Manny’s Tex Mex, Tyler ISD celebrates the value, abilities, and contributions of young adults with all abilities every month, not just in October. These partnerships demonstrate what is possible when local businesses open their doors, recognize individual strengths, and provide meaningful opportunities for students to learn, contribute, and grow.
Tyler ISD is grateful to Manny’s Tex Mex for welcoming our students back, investing in their growth, and demonstrating how businesses can make a meaningful difference by creating opportunities for all. At Tyler ISD, we don’t just celebrate value and talent in October—we celebrate it every month by building partnerships, creating opportunities, and helping every student move toward a future filled with possibility.
Get Involved
Interested in joining Tyler ISD Vocational Services and Texas Workforce Commission Vocational Rehabilitation Services in empowering students through work-based learning? Learn how your business can make a difference by visiting our Vocational Services website. Tyler ISD is deeply grateful to Manny’s Tex Mex for their dedication and encouragement, helping our students become job-ready in a supportive environment. Their partnership truly is a win-win for Tyler ISD, Texas Workforce VR, and our entire community. Together, we build a stronger, more inclusive workforce where everyone can thrive.
Big Dreams. Real Skills. Real Opportunities.