Casino Night 2024
On Friday, September 27th, 2024, Inroads to Opportunities hosted its annual Casino Night Fundraiser & Awards Ceremony, celebrating 65 years of providing vocational rehabilitation services. The event, held at the Galloping Hill Golf Course, was a tremendous success, with over 200 guests filling the sold-out Grand Ballroom for an evening of exciting casino games, community recognition, and celebration.
A Night of Fun and Friendly Competition
Attendees had the chance to compete in Classic Casino Games, including Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, and Let It Ride, as they aimed to win one of the 40 tricky tray baskets filled with exciting prizes. The competitive spirit was alive throughout the evening, creating a lively atmosphere that brought people together in support of a great cause.
Distinguished Guests and Special Recognitions
We were honored to be joined by several distinguished guests, including Union County Prosecutor William A. Daniel, NJ Senator Joseph Cryan, Roselle Councilwoman Denise Wilkerson, and Union County Commissioner Sergio Granados, who presented Inroads to Opportunities with a proclamation recognizing the organization’s enduring impact on the greater Union County area.
Honoring Those Who Make a Difference
This year’s event also gave us the opportunity to recognize individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to our mission. Our 2024 Honorees are:
Champion of Change Award: Gina Iosim, Assistant Prosecutor, Union County Prosecutor’s Office, Director of the Community Prosecution Division
Community Partnership Award: Bistro Café (Clark, NJ) and Burlington Coat Factory (Union, NJ)
Unsung Hero Award: The Peitsinovski Family
Making Inroads Award: Mohsen Badran, President & CEO of ACCSES NJ
Staff Lifetime Achievement Award: Eileen Biletto, Payroll Specialist at Inroads to Opportunities
Arnold W. Rintzler Memorial Impact Award: Westfield Knights of Columbus Council #1711
Each of these honorees has played a critical role in advancing our mission and serving the greater community, and we are proud to have had the opportunity to acknowledge their efforts.
A Record-Breaking Year
The success of this year’s Casino Night Fundraiser would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors. Their contributions helped us set a new fundraising record, ensuring we can continue providing vital services to individuals with disabilities.
Ace Sponsors:
Westfield Knights of Columbus Council #1711
Joseph E. Antonuccio
King Sponsors:
Wells Fargo Advisors, Peter L. Horowitz, Senior Vice President
Union Knights of Columbus #4504
Capodalgi Family Foundation
Sungu Development
Queen Sponsors:
Joyleaf Roselle, NJ
Steve Hehl Esq. Javerbaum Wurgaft
Charles Schwab, Millburn, NJ
Columbia Bank, Roselle, NJ
Risk Strategies – Richard Skorupski
Gene & Jill Schafhauser
Sabert
Jack Sponsors:
Willis Tower Watson
Union County Savings Bank
Bill & Elissa Cudnyj
Kenneth Rowinsky
Tara McDonald
Total Green Holland Bulb
Prevention Links
Smolin Advisory-Tax-Accounting
Wild Card Sponsors:
DiFabio Construction Company
M&T Bank
Stickel Packaging Supply
Tri-State Light and Energy
Cipriani & Werner Attorneys at Law
Barclay
Gateway Chamber of Commerce
John & Laura Bush
Nancy Furnari
Bryan Hansen Band
Liquid Church
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our sponsors for their ongoing commitment to supporting Inroads to Opportunities and our mission.
Looking Ahead
The success of this year’s event has set a new standard for the future. As we look ahead, we are filled with excitement and determination to continue building on our legacy of providing comprehensive vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities. Thank you to everyone who attended, supported, and contributed to making the Casino Night Fundraiser & Awards Ceremony a night to remember!
Photography: Vic Wahby Photography
Solar Eclipse Safety
On April 8, North America will experience a total solar eclipse, stretching across parts of Mexico, the U.S. and Canada, which will be visible to approximately 31.6 million people. Check out our Solar Eclipse Safety Packet.
On April 8, North America will experience a total solar eclipse, stretching across parts of Mexico, the U.S. and Canada, which will be visible to approximately 31.6 million people.
Click the image below to download our Solar Eclipse Safety Packet.
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
Thursday March 21st, Inroads to Opportunities hosted our second annual luncheon for Developmental Disability Awareness Month. Distinguished guests and honorees included community leaders, advocates, and individuals dedicated to championing inclusivity and support for those with developmental disabilities. Together, we're making strides towards a more inclusive society.
Inroads honored Gina Iosim, Director of the Community Prosecution Division, Union County Prosecutor’s Office; Julienne Cherry, President & CEO of United Way Greater Union County; Deana Mesaros, Director of the Division of Strategic Planning at the Union County Department of Economic Development; Hyde and Watson Foundation, Westfield Knights of Columbus, The Columbia Bank Foundation, and The Union County HEART Grant Foundation.
We would like to thank everyone from our community for attending this event and learning about how we make a difference for our population.
National Disability Employment Awareness Month
Message from Inroads to Opportunities President & CEO Angela Calzone
National Disability Employment Awareness Month
I wanted to take a moment to highlight the significance of National Disability Employment Month. This month, we come together to recognize and celebrate the incredible talents, skills, and contributions of individuals with disabilities in the workforce. It's a time to reaffirm our commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and equal opportunities for all.
At Inroads to Opportunities, we firmly believe that diversity is our strength, and that includes embracing and empowering our colleagues with disabilities. We understand that disability is not a barrier, but rather a unique perspective that adds value to our team and enriches our workplace culture.
This month, let's reflect on the following:
1. Equal Opportunities: We are committed to providing equal opportunities for every program participant, regardless of their abilities. We recognize the unique talents that individuals with disabilities bring to our organization.
2. Inclusivity: Inclusivity isn't just a buzzword; it's a guiding principle. We strive to create an inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and supported in their professional journey.
3. Breaking Down Barriers: National Disability Employment Month reminds us of the importance of breaking down barriers to employment. Together, we can pave the way for a more accessible and equitable future.
4. Advocate for Change: As a leader, I encourage each of you to become advocates for change, both within and outside our organization. Let's foster a culture of understanding and support for individuals with disabilities.
5. Celebrate Achievements: Take a moment to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our colleagues with disabilities. Their resilience, innovation, and determination inspire us all.
This month and beyond, let's continue our journey towards a more inclusive, diverse, and accessible workplace. We have the power to create positive change, and I am immensely proud to lead a company that values each and every member of our team.
Thank you for your dedication, your commitment, and your unwavering support of our shared mission.
With gratitude and determination,
Angela Calzone,
President & CEO, Inroads to Opportunities
In Loving Memory
Inroads mourns the loss of a member of our Board of Directors, Arnold William Rintzler. Arnie brought a wealth of experience and wisdom to our organization.
With 29 years in the business world, Arnie served as a senior manager for Macy's and Federated, including 12 years as the president of The Casual Woman, a successful chain of apparel stores that he founded and grew, eventually selling to a national retailer. After this achievement, Arnie became a dedicated business coach, working with over 300 individuals across 40 industries, helping them attain inspired leadership, employee cohesion, and greater profitability. His contributions to Inroads were immeasurable, as he always asked thought-provoking questions, provided valuable insights, and steadfastly supported our agency's mission.
Arnie's connection to Inroads stemmed from his curiosity about his daughter-in-law, Cyndy Walsh Rintzler's work at the center. Cyndy fondly remembers him as a source of unwavering support, a voice of reason, and a champion for others' dreams. Arnie was someone who saw people for who they were and loved them unconditionally. His zest for life was evident in his enthusiasm for Christmas carols, his love for family gatherings, his curiosity about people's motivations, and his wholehearted embrace of life.
Arnie is survived by his loving wife, Grace, their three children, Beth, Diane, and Michael, along with their spouses, and his eight cherished grandchildren. Just as he left a lasting impact on us during his time with us, we find solace in knowing that his memory will forever be a blessing.
Rest in peace, Arnie. You will be deeply missed, but your legacy lives on in the hearts and lives you touched.
Inroads Summer Picnic 2023
Darrin R. had everyone on their feet with her rendition of Backstreet Boys
Wednesday July 12th, Inroads to Opportunities held our annual Summer Picnic at our Roselle Campus. Program participants enjoyed a BBQ lunch, live Karaoke and competed in carnival games to win fun prizes.
TransitionPLUS singer, Jordan P.W. sang a beautiful arrangement of Tony Bennett’s “My Heart Tells Me,” and made a speech during the instrumental section stating, “Inroads is the best place.”
Inroads veteran Picnic performers, Jasmine and Eric, otherwise known as The Firestone’s, did a fun version of “Flowers,” by Miley Cyrus.
Inroads staff and participants busted a move to “Vivir la Vida,” by Marc Anthony.
Inroads newcomer, Eddie had command of the crowd with his incredible karaoke performance.
We would like to send a very special thank you to our volunteers Lori Gonzalez and Pastor Robert Prince from Liquid Church in Garwood, NJ for helping us set up and run the games.
Inroads would also like to thank all the staff who worked tirelessly in the heat to make sure this was a fun day for all of us.
Here are more scenes from our event:
Inroads Transition Graduation Ceremony 2023
Wednesday June 15th, Inroads to Opportunities celebrated our graduating students from our school to work transition program. This year marked our largest graduating class with 16 graduates. Inroads multi purpose room was filled with family, friends, staff and dignitaries from our greater community to celebrate this extraordinary accomplishment in these young people's lives.
Guests included The Honorable Mayor of Roselle, Donald Shaw, Councilwoman of Roselle, Denise Wilkerson, Special Education Teacher, David M. Charles from the Newark school system, Union County Commissioner Chairman, Sergio Granados, and Honorable Mayor of Elizabeth, Christian J. Bollwage. Chairperson of Inroads Board of Directors, Jill Schafhauser presented each graduating student with a check to start their first bank accounts.
During the ceremony, Inroads honored the Westfield, NJ Knights of Columbus #1711 who recently raised $6,000 for our programs.
Additional speeches and addresses came from Director of Vocational Services, Daniel Bagnato, Transition Counselors, Lisa Jamison and Linda Galaretta, Transition student, Marquis G., Director of Vocational Advocacy and Quality Assurance, Cyndy Walsh Rinztler as well as Inroads board member Janis Arrindell who spoke about what Inroads continues to mean for her daughter.
We would like to thank everyone who came out to support our students.
Inroads would also like to thank the following staff members who go above and beyond for our students:
President/CEO- Michele Ford
COO/ Vice President- Angela Calzone
Transition Aides- Xiomara Hernandez and Trey Ford
Workshop Supervisor- Elna Velez
Cafeteria Manager- Denise Hall
Janitorial Trainer- Susan Washington
Congratulations to our 2023 graduates. We cannot wait to see where your journey takes you!
Annual Report 2022
Inroads to Opportunities Annual Report 2022.
Click the cover to open the full report.
Inroads to Opportunities Announces Leadership Transition
The Board of Directors of Inroads to Opportunities is pleased to announce that Angela Calzone will succeed Michele Ford as President and Chief Executive Officer of Inroads to Opportunities upon Mrs. Ford's retirement on June 30th, 2023. Ms.Calzone has served as Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Inroads since January 2020. Ms. Calzone will become President and Chief Executive Officer effective July 1st, 2023.
According to Board Chair Jill Schafhauser, "Inroads has the pleasure of meeting Ms. Calzone over a decade ago when she, as a consultant and trainer, came to steward our first Strategic Plan. Over the years, she provided training for our leadership team and staff, worked with us through the launch of our transition from the Occupational Center of Union County to Inroads to Opportunities and supported us on subsequent Strategic Plans. Ms. Calzone also served briefly on our Board of Directors. We look forward to her continued commitment to our mission in support of individuals with a variety of disabilities."
Ms. Calzone, an award-winning business and talent management strategist, and as previously mentioned, most recently served as Vice President & Chief Operating Officer for Inroads to Opportunities. Prior to joining Inroads in January 2020, she served as Chief Operating Officer for The Webster Apartments in New York City. Earlier, Ms. Calzone spent ten years as a co-managing member of Change & Response Strategies LLC, a consortium of leadership, management, human resources, training and marketing strategists.
Ms. Calzone has held senior leadership roles at several top consulting and professional services firms across an array of verticals. Throughout her career, Ms. Calzone received numerous state-wide accolades in recognition of her exceptional leadership both as a serial entrepreneur and business professional. She was among the finalists of NJ’s Leading Women Entrepreneurs and Business Owners by NJ Monthly Magazine, celebrated among the Best 50 Women in Business in New Jersey by NJBIZ and nominated for Garden State Woman of the Year.
Ms. Calzone holds a Master of Arts in Corporate and Organizational Communications from Fairleigh Dickinson University and a Bachelor of Arts in English and Business Administration from Upsala College.
Angela shared, “I am humbled to be passed the torch from Michele Ford and fully commit myself to leading this extraordinary agency into the the future.”
Inroads To Opportunities Held Ribbon Cutting And Maiden Ride Of Its First-Ever LULA Lift
Omar Bison in wheelchair, Inroads President/CEO Michele Ford is in the yellow blazer next to Hon. Donald Shaw, Mayor, Roselle, NJ; Julie Holland (Columbia Bank Foundation) and Denise Wilkerson , Roselle, NJ, Council President
Inroads to Opportunities is proud to announce the unveiling of our first-ever LULA (Limited Use Limited Access) Lift!
The Ribbon Cutting and Maiden Ride occurred on February 7th, 2023 at 301 Cox Street in Roselle, NJ. Among the many participants were Inroads to Opportunities leadership such as Michele Ford, Inroads President/CEO, Angela Calzone, Inroads VP/COO, Leticia Esquivel-Potash, Inroads Director of Mental Health, Cyndy Walsh Rintzler, Inroads Director of Vocational Advocacy, Rich Sherman, Inroads CFO. In addition, other participants were Hon. Ronald Shaw, Mayor of Roselle; Denise Wilkerson, Councilwoman – Roselle; Julie Holland, Executive Director – Columbia Bank Foundation; Gene Jannotti, President, Greater Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce, Jim Mooney, Board President, Greater Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce and Omar Bisono.
In addition to its plethora of services and support for adults with disabilities, Inroads to Opportunities is enthusiastic about expanding its day programming, such as social skills development, group activities and special events utilizing its newly renovated second-floor, multipurpose space that can accommodate larger groups of individuals with appropriate social distancing.
According to Michele Ford, Inroads to Opportunities’ President & CEO, “We are honored to be able to make this great space accessible to individuals with mobility issues; we have embarked on a costly but much needed LULA (Limited Use Limited Access) installation to make sure everyone can take advantage of all Inroads to Opportunities has to offer. Safety is our number one priority and the LULA Lift and new fire-rated steps to the second floor are essential to ensure facilities are accessible, inclusive and safe.”
The LULA lift, fire-rate steps and overall renovations were funded in part by the generosity of the Columbia Bank Foundation and other corporate sponsors.
Angela Calzone, Inroads VP/COO, Leticia Esquivel-Potash, Inroads Director of Mental Health, Michele Ford, Inroads President/CEO, Hon. Donald Shaw, Mayor of Roselle, Julie Holland, Executive Director – Columbia Bank Foundation, Denise Wilkerson, Councilwoman – Roselle, Gene Jannotti, President, Greater Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce, Jim Mooney, Board President, Greater Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce, Cyndy Walsh Rintzler, Inroads Director of Vocational Advocacy, Rich Sherman, Inroads CFO. Participant: Omar Bisono
Cyndy Walsh Rintzler Appointed by Governor Murphy to Serve on Advisory Council
February 7th, 2023 Inroads to Opportunities’ Director of Advocacy and Quality Assurance, Cyndy Walsh Rintzler, LPC, has been appointed by Governor Phil Murphy to serve as a member of the New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services Rehabilitation Advisory Council.
The Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) appoints leadership and necessary resources to assist state and additional agencies in the provision of vocational rehabilitation and other services to individuals with disabilities. It maximizes their employment, independence as individuals, and the integration into the community and labor market.
According to Michele Ford, Inroads to Opportunities’ President & CEO, “We are delighted that Cyndy was selected to serve on this Council. She is a strong advocate for vocational choice for individuals with disabilities.”
ABOUT CYNDY WALSH RINTZLER, LPC
With over 20 years of experience in the field of Vocational Rehabilitation, Cyndy Walsh Rintzler works extensively with adults and teens with developmental, psychological, emotional and physical disabilities in attaining meaningful and sustainable employment. Cyndy oversees the operations for the various vocational programs to include Transition from School to Work and Vocational & Employment Services at Inroads to Opportunities, a 501c3 non-profit organization that serves people with disabilities through Union, Essex, Middlesex, Morris and Hudson counties. Inroads is a proud member of A-Team New Jersey, a state chapter of the national advocacy moment to unite individuals with disabilities and their families in their choice of employment options and services.
Cyndy Rintzler has led Inroads to Opportunities advocacy movement for adults with disabilities at the state and federal level. Cyndy was successful in engaging Senator Cory Booker’s staff in an educational session about employment options and meeting with members of the U.S. Congress during New Jersey’s ‘Day on the Hill.’ Cyndy helped organize attendance at a rally at the State Capitol, which helped to successfully increase the pay for Direct Service Providers. For these efforts, Cyndy received the ACCESSNJ 2019 Star Award and is currently a nominee for appointment to the State Rehabilitation Commission.
The Union County Development Workforce Board is comprised of local partnerships of private and public sector participants that provide coordinated planning, policy guidance and oversight for all workforce readiness programs in the community. Cyndy will be a voice for Union County citizens with disabilities as the UCWD Board works toward a more inclusive community.
ABOUT INROADS TO OPPORTUNITIES:
Since 1959, Inroads to Opportunities, formerly the Occupational Center of Union County, has provided programs and services to over 400 individuals each year with all types of disabilities and ranging in age from 16 through retirement. Programs and services include vocational preparation, transition from school to work, job placement and mental health services.
Inroads to Opportunities is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), an approved provider of the NJ Department of Labor, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services and Commission of the Blind and Visually Impaired. Inroads is licensed by the State of New Jersey Department of Human Resources, NJ Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services to provide partial care and Division of Developmental Disabilities to provide Day Habilitation Services. Inroads is an approved Medicaid provider and an approved Employment Network under the Ticket to Work Social Security initiative.
Board Member Jack Kovalcik announces retirement after 44 years of service
Photo: Jack Kovalcik pictured left with Inroads to Opportunities Board Chairperon Jill Schafhauser
On January 25th, 2023, Inroads to Opportunities Board Member John "Jack" Kovalcik announced his retirement after 44 years of service. Jack held leadership roles as Board Treasurer, Board Secretary, Chairman of the Board. In addition, Jack became a member of various Board Committees, including the Finance Committee and the Executive Committee. In these positions, he became an invaluable counselor to the Board of Directors and management of the Occupational Center of Union County.
Jack has made a major impact in his tenure at our charity in helping to better the lives of individuals with disabilities. With over 4.5 decades of experience, we have major shoes to fill.
From all of us at Inroads to Opportunities, we want to send a heartfelt thank you to Jack Kovalchik for his commitment to our mission and leadership.
InRoads recognized as finalist for 2022 NJBIZ Business of the Year in the category of Non-Profit Organizations
Celebrating Inroads as a finalist for 2022 NJBIZ Business of the Year in the category of Non-Profit Organizations with under 100 employees.
L-R: Harry Jones IV, Director of Employment Services, Ken Rowinsky, Treasurer-Board of Directors, Cyndy Walsh Rintzler, Director of Vocational Advocacy, Janis Arrindell, Vice President-Board of Directors, Letty Esquivel Potash, Director of Mental Health, Michele Ford, President/CEO, Sara Avanzi, Business Development Specialist, Daniel Bagnato, Director of Vocational Services.
Michele Ford, President & CEO, Inroads To Opportunities, Guests on NJBIZ Conversations
Michele Ford, President & CEO, Inroads to Opportunities, was recently featured on NJBIZ Conversations with Host Jeffery Kanige. Inroads to Opportunities is a Union County, NJ, based non-profit human services agency that provides programs and services to individuals with disabilities ranging in age from 16 to retirement.
In a wide-ranging conversation, Ford discussed the importance of National Disability Employment Month, which falls each year in October. Ford emphasized the importance of more recognition for National Disability Employment Month.
According to Ford, “We are the most diverse and inclusive group of people. Employers should start to recognize it's much easier now after COVID with all the flexibility we are adding to the workspace to not be afraid to take a chance on someone with a disabling condition.” As the conversation continued, Ford was able to outline the benefits individuals with disabilities bring to the workforce.
With over 35 years of experience, Ford has made a tremendous impact on the lives of employees and participants in the Inroads to Opportunities program. Demonstrating selflessness and compassion, Ford has dedicated her life to support individuals with disabilities.
Within the last year, Ford has been recognized as a ‘2022 NJBIZ ICON’ by NJBIZ, the Shero Award given by the Union County Board of Commissioners with as well as receiving the ‘Inventive Leader in Adult Services, Courage and Compassion Award’ presented by the NJ Association of Mental Health & Addiction Agencies (NJAMHAA).
To listen to the interview, please click here: https://bit.ly/3f0GR1m
Inroads To Opportunities (OCUC) Hosted Casino Night and Award Presentation Ceremony in Celebration of National Disabilities Employment Month
Inroads to Opportunities, a Union County, NJ based human services agency that provides programs and services to individuals with disabilities, hosted a Casino Night and Awards Presentation Ceremony on Friday, October 7th, 2022 at Elks Lodge in Union, NJ, to celebrate National Disabilities Employment Month.
The event was a huge success! This special night was filled with pride, recognition and awards to those who have made a difference in the lives of people with disabilities. Many local political leaders were present and spoke to the attendees and award winners.
Inroads honored the following individuals who truly go above and beyond to make an impact at Inroads to Opportunities and its participants. Among them were Gene Jannotti, President/CEO, Greater Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce, who received the Champion of Change Award; Jackie Park-Albaum, Groundworks, Elizabeth, who received the Community Partnership Award; Julie Holland, Columbia Bank Foundation who also received the Community Partnership Award; Nancy Furnari who received the Unsung Hero Award; Paul Aronsohn, NJ State Ombudsman and Donald M. Payne, Jr., U.S. Congressman, NJ District 10, who both received the Making Inroads Award; and Lynn Boyko who received the Staff Lifetime Achievement Award.
Nancy Laporte, Director of Operations at Inroads to Opportunities Announces Retirement After 40 Years
Inroads to Opportunities, a Union County, NJ, based non-profit human services agency, that provides programs and services to individuals with disabilities, recently announced the retirement of Nancy Laporte. August 2022 marks forty years of service for Laporte.
Laporte was with the agency for four decades and retired from Inroads as their Director of Operations, Contract Packaging Services. Laporte is also a Star conference Lifetime achievement award nominee.
According to Michele Ford, Inroads’ President & CEO, “Nancy is someone I consider a colleague and a friend. One of the traits I admire most in Nancy is that she meets every challenge with a positive, can do, attitude. Everyone at Inroads wishes Nancy much happiness and success in her next chapter. We will all miss her quick wit, caring nature and how she shared her love for cooking by providing homemade treats for every holiday.”
Nancy dedicated the last 40 years of her working life to ensure that individuals with disabilities have a training facility that prepares them for the competitive assembly and packaging industry. This training provides experience with general competitive job expectations.
Nancy began her career at Inroads as the Coordinator of Operations, a position essential to keeping all the moving parts in assembly packaging in harmony. She has been responsible for overseeing the agency’s time study process which ensured everyone is paid fairly using Department of Labor Wage and Hour regulations. Her dedication, genuine love for the field, and the people, made her the natural choice to step up into the Director position in 2017.
Directing a million-dollar assembly and packaging social enterprise that is involved in training some 400 individuals annually is no easy feat. The pandemic posed some very significant challenges for Inroads. Nancy immediately recognized that the agency must be able to meet their assembly and packaging commitments as well as balance participants schedules to work in person. Nancy and her team continued to work and put out product during the worst of COVID. This was accomplished without any trainees.
Her dedication and commitment were instrumental in Inroads retaining its assembly and packaging customers. Eventually the agency began seeing participants in person. Nancy has also been a strong safety and skill development advocate, pushing for upgrades to assist participants and the agency in moving forward.
Nancy is a resident of Roselle Park. She is the wife of Jack and mother of Megan.
Inroads to Opportunities, Promotes Harry Jones To Director of Employment Services
Harry Jones, a member of the leadership team at Inroads to Opportunities, was recently promoted to Director of Employment Services. Inroads to Opportunities is a Union County, NJ based non-profit human services agency that provides programs and services to individuals with disabilities ranging in age from 16 to retirement.
A strong advocate for employment choice for individuals with disabilities, Jones has been working in the field for over a decade. In addition to managing Employment Services for Inroads where Harry and his team provide support in the areas of job search, career planning, job coaching and long term on the job supports, Jones mentors at-risk youth ages 5 – 18. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Physical Education and has a Master’s degree in Social Work along with various certifications. Additionally, Jones is certified to conduct Trial Work Experience assessments for individuals with disabilities who are referred through the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation.
Jones and his team are always on the search for employers who would either hire Inroads’ participants as employees and/or allow us to have a counselor and participant on site briefly to evaluate and test the participant for employment readiness.
West Orange Resident, Inroads To Opportunities Leader, Advocates In Washington, DC, For Employment Opportunities For Individuals With Disabilities
West Orange resident Cyndy Walsh Rintzler, director of vocational advocacy and quality assurance at Inroads To Opportunities, recently joined colleagues in Washington, D.C., to meet with the staffs of U.S. Rep. Donald M. Payne Jr. and U.S. Sen. Cory Booker to advocate for employment choice for individuals with disabilities.
The purpose of the trip was to attend a national conference for continuing education and networking, in addition to meeting with legislative staff to educate public servants on the current status in regard to employment choice for all individuals with disabilities.
Diane Roberts, Specialist and Benefits Counselor, Inroads To Opportunities, Earned Prestigious Designation
Roselle, NJ - Diane Roberts, Inroads Ticket-to-Work Specialist and Benefits Counselor earned the CPWIC, Community Partner Work Incentives Counselor designation from the NJ Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services. This noteworthy designation allows one to provide Benefits Counseling to individuals with disabilities who are interested in entering or re-entering the workforce. Only a handful of people in New Jersey have earned this designation.
Inroads to Opportunities is a Union County, NJ based non-profit human services agency that provides programs and services to individuals with disabilities ranging in age from 16 to retirement.
According to Roberts, “I work with Social Security beneficiaries who are interested in finding employment and would like to eventually become financially independent. The most enjoyable aspect of my job is encouraging people and helping them find their own strength to pursue and maintain employment, which for many who haven’t worked in several years can be daunting. The most unique part of working at Inroads is working with people who are dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities, and furthering opportunities for those we serve.”
ABOUT DIANE ROBERTS
Prior to joining Inroads, Diane had a career in the women’s apparel industry. She covered wholesale sales as well as marketing for branded apparel. Additional, Diane represented overseas factories providing product development for in-house department store brands and chain stores for 35 years. Roberts received her education at Alfred University, New York State College of Ceramics where she received her BFA in Fine Art.