Working for Fair Wages, Independence and Inclusion

It’s estimated that as many as approximately 46,000 Connecticut residents — have Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). People with IDD are eager to find jobs and be supporting members of their communities, yet nine out of ten adults with IDD remain unemployed.

Since 1952, The Arc Eastern Connecticut (The Arc ECT) has offered hope and opportunity to people with IDD and their families. From providing jobs with fair-market wages to teaching basic life skills.

One of the ways we support individuals is though our innovative micro-enterprises. We currently operate three micro-enterprise businesses that provide training and career development for participants. Each offers real-world work experience that helps them stand out from the average worker, increases their marketability — and most importantly — translates to meaningful employment. “Meaningful work gives people a sense of equality, achievement and confidence. It gives people dignity, a feeling of independence and participation within the community.” said CEO Kathleen Stauffer.

Our three enterprises are located in Woodstock, Connecticut and provide individuals with very different career opportunities:

The Cookie Factory is a bakery/store that bakes delicious all-natural chocolate chip cookies — selling them throughout New England supermarkets, convenience stores and online.

The Emporium Thrift Store provides thrifting with purpose. The store enables people with IDD to gain retail experience — collecting, inventorying and selling an enormous variety of new and gently used items from home goods, to clothing, to kitchen tools, toys — and more!

The Donation Station is the only bottle and can redemption center in the region. Crew members are trained in the operation of recycling machinery, sorting and feeding the machines in this extremely important field — plus, they’re helping keep Connecticut clean.

Taking our micro-enterprises on the road

This spring, The Arc ECT launched an accessible Cookie Truck as a mobile extension of The Cookie Factory in Woodstock, enabling our participants to experience retail sales at various community events and other locations.

Our Cookie Truck also serves as ‘a vehicle’ to bring attention to our new anti-bullying campaign. “This truck is a game-changer for our agency and the people we serve,” said CEO Kathleen Stauffer. “It not only increases diverse job training opportunities for people with IDD, but also sends a message of inclusion and equality.”

“It’s important to understand that these micro-enterprises are not just charities, they’re actually businesses providing income for The Arc ECT as well as serving the needs of the individuals. There’s a great deal of pride in contributing to the greater good.”

Visit www.TheArcECT.org for more information, or call 860-928-4727.