GREEN COVE SPRINGS – Aaron Bean is more accustomed to being asked for favors as a U.S. Representative.

But last Friday, the Congressman representing Clay County was at Challenge Enterprises to observe the tireless work done by the organization that provides day training, residential services and employment opportunities for adults with different abilities.

He also wanted to start the process of earning the designation as an AbilityOne Congressional Champion.

Bean toured the warehouse facility where residents work on several projects, including shredding documents from the Internal Revenue Service.

“I appreciate everything all of you do,” he said. “I was truly honored that you’d have me here.”

Following the 40-minute tour, Bean and Challenge Chief Executive Director Nancy Keating retreated to a conference room where Keating explained the program.

“We’re hopeful to get him included,” she said. “Being an AbilityOne Champion is very important. I’m grateful to get it started.”

There currently are about 150 Congressional members of the program. According to the organization, SourceAmerica works with the National Industries for the Blind to honor representatives and senators who demonstrate a commitment both to their constituents who have significant disabilities or are blind and to the AbilityOne Program.”

Bean said it was important to recognize everyone who lives in his 4th District, which consists of Clay, Duval and Nassau counties.

To become a member, an elected legislator must complete four steps. The first was to meet with an AbilityOne Program administrator at their Washington, D.C., office.

Bean completed Step 2 on Friday by touring a member agency contracted manufacturing or service contract site.

He also must support the Javits-Wagner-O’Day Act by using AbilityOne services or products in Washington or his district office. Keating said he completed that stage by agreeing to have outdated or unneeded documents shredded in Green Cove Springs.

And he must support through a communication like a press conference, congressional record statement, or a statement on social media supporting the AbilityOne Program.

Keating said Bean plans to talk about Challenge Enterprises on the House of Representatives floor to include the organization in the congressional record.