The Investment Recovery Program hires people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through The Arc of Monroe’s Job Path program. They work alongside job coaches who are also employed by The Arc to complete tasks for RG&E.
As part of the program, Dorrien Nero and De’on Green have been hired to work at RG&E’s Scottsville Road facility where they work five days a week, sorting various metals from utility poles for recycling. Dorrien says they learn about the metals and how to identify them and then separate them, and he likes that he gets to learn these new skills.
“I like that I get to experience hands on work, and that me and De’on get to work with a lot of tools,” says Dorrien.
Both employees expressed their appreciation for being involved in the program.
“I’ve been looking to have a nice job and this is my opportunity, so I’m taking it,” said De’on.
Job Path has been creating connections to employment opportunities around Rochester for more than 40 years and it’s partnerships like these that help The Arc of Monroe further its mission. Luke Mayo, Director of Business Relations for Job Path, says this program also provides these participants with the opportunity to take part in competitive employment.
“We want to see the people we support thrive in the communities they live in,” he said.