Our mission is to empower children and adults with developmental disabilities to achieve their potential based on personal choices, abilities and interests...

For more information about our career services please contact:

Kim Spahn
Asst. Executive Director
phone
(914) 428-8330, ext.3107
fax
(914) 428-0322
kspahn
@westchesterarc.org

Westchester Arc
The Gleeson-Israel Gateway Center
265 Saw Mill River Road
Hawthorne, NY 10532
914.949.9300
info@westchesterarc.org

24-hour
Crisis Intervention:
914.949.8200

Información en EspañolInformación en Español


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Sorting Career Choices

Westchester Arc’s recycling center in Mount Kisco is an innovative career choice for individuals with developmental disabilities.

The center employs 22 workers, who sorted an estimated 97 tons of aluminum cans last year. They also clean the work area and empty and replace bins. Employees enjoy a fun, friendly environment where they build friendships and learn about teamwork, time management and motor skills.

“Our employees enjoy contributing to the community and often bring their own cans to the center to be recycled,” notes Linda Warner, director of pre-vocational services.

For some individuals the center represents a transition point—their first job in the community.

“The Recycling Center is unique in that employees are in a community-based setting, yet work exclusively with Westchester Arc staff and peers, as they would in a sheltered workshop,” comments supervisor Alan Magnotta. “This familiarity helps individuals grow comfortable with the community and enhance their self-esteem.”

Some workers move on to other community jobs, while others choose to take advantage of the center’s flexible schedule and competitive wages.

Employees are paid prevailing wages, based on their productivity. Every six months, supervisors time the workers and compare their performance to the work of someone without a disability. If someone is especially good, he or she has the chance to make more than the prevailing wage.

“I love working at the recycling center,” comments one employee. “I just got a raise and that makes me feel good.”


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