Michele Ford, President & CEO, Inroads To Opportunities Received Prestigious NJBIZ ICON Award
Michele Ford, President & CEO of Inroads to Opportunities was recently honored with the NJBIZ’s 2022 ICON Award. 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.
NJBIZ’s ICON Awards are given to New Jersey leaders over the age of 60, who have made major contributions to their designated field as well as their significant impact on the state’s larger business community.
According to Ford, “I hope this award is another way to bring true recognition to the important work being done in the rehabilitation field to provide New jersey Employers with a diverse, qualified and enthusiastic work force. I am extremely honored and accept this award in recognition of Inroads to Opportunities and the amazing team I work with every day to prepare individuals with disabilities for independence and employment.”
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 by The Union County Board of Commissioners with the Shero Award 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).
ABOUT MICHELE FORD:
For over 35 years, Michele has dedicated her life to serving the needs of individuals with disabilities. A life-long advocate, Michele has been a champion for this most vulnerable population by serving on Union County Non-Profit Consortium, Union County Crisis Consortium and most recently addressing members of the US Commission on Civil Rights in Washington, D.C. to raise awareness of choice in defense of employment options for individuals with disabilities.
Inroads To Opportunities (OCUC) Celebrates Transition Graduation
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. Inroads is pleased to announce the graduation of its Transition class.
Inroads 2022 Transition Program recognizes their graduate students, Joseph and Khurram. They were celebrated for their accomplishments made in the program this year. Like all Inroads students, Joseph and Khurram have worked extremely hard to achieve this milestone as they transition to the next phase of their lives.
Helping to celebrate this spectacular event, we were joined by the families of both graduates as well as The Honorable Donald A. Shaw, Mayor of Roselle, Roselle Council President Denise Wilkerson, President/CEO of the Greater Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce, Gene Jannotti, Farm & Garden Director of Groundworks Elizabeth, Jackie Park-Albaum, and Inroads Board Chairperson, Jill Schafhauser.
The Transition Program at Inroads provides a support system for high school students with disabilities. Inroads to Transitions works with students from ages 16 through graduation to explore the world of work. Students learn what it means to be a successful employee through a variety of opportunities from paid work experiences to vocational training activities.
Staff Spotlight: May 2022
Q: How long have you been at Inroads to Opportunities and could you tell us more about your position?
A: I have been very fortunate and blessed to be at Inroads to Opportunities for 20 years. I truly enjoy working here in this rewarding field with many benefits and opportunities. My position here is to provide counseling support, as well as assisting participants/students to develop work and independence skills.
Q: What parts of our mission do you connect with?
A: Being able to guide and assist individuals to reach their goals. Inroads helps lead individuals to do what they otherwise felt was not possible.
Q: What is your team like?
A: We are a positive and enthusiastic transition team that works together and supports each other. We make sure we serve our participants/students in the best way possible while still making sure to help prepare them for the next stage in their lives. At the same time, we make the best effort to make sure their journey here is fun.
Q: What 3 words best describe Inroads to Opportunities?
A: Great support system.
Q: Tell us something that people don’t know about you.
A: I enjoy arts and crafts during my free time, especially holiday wreaths.
Q: What’s the most unique part about working here?
The most unique part about working here is being surrounded by so many amazing people, especially those who, even though face difficulties and challenges, they don’t give up and are always happy to be here. Inroads offers so many opportunities and supports. We also do a lot of fun activities that makes the agency unique.
Staff Spotlight: Stephen Karmondy
Q: How long have you been at Inroads to Opportunities and could you tell us more about your position?
A: I have been working at Inroads as a Mental Health Counselor since July 2018, so about 3.5 years. The main parts of my position include running group and individual mental health counseling sessions, with a caseload of mental health clients as well as following an additional caseload of Extended Employment clients.
Q: What parts of our mission do you connect with?
A: The deepest connection I have with our mission is helping people pursue their goals and assisting them in living the most independent and meaningful lives they can.
Q: What is your team like?
A: Our team in the mental health department all depend on each other and work together to make sure all of our participants receive the services they need to maintain their progress in their recovery. Everyone goes above and beyond to help support each other especially when things get busy.
Q: What 3 words best describe Inroads to Opportunities?
A: Progress, community, support.
Q: Tell us something that people don’t know about you
A: I ran a Marathon in 2021.
Q: What’s the most unique part about working here?
A: The most unique part about working here is that you can walk into any room and at least 10 people will say hello to you and call you by name.
Staff Spotlight: Diane Roberts
Q: How long have you been at Inroads to Opportunities and could you tell us more about your position?
A: I’ve been at Inroads for 5.5 years. I work with Social Security beneficiaries who are interested in finding employment and would like to eventually become financially independent.
Q: What parts of Inroads mission do you most connect with?
A: The aspect of my job I connect mostly with 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 very daunting.
Q: What is your team like?
A: At this time I am my own team, however I work closely with our COO, Angela who provides excellent guidance and support.
Q: Tell us something that people don’t know about you.
A: I’m a shy extrovert , I love feeding people (good food) and I love opera.
Q: What’s the most unique part about working here?
A: 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.
Staff Spotlight: Susan Washington
When she is not leading her janitorial skills training crew, Susan Washington makes sure our partial care and day habilitation program participants get from point A to point B.
MEET SUSAN WASHINGTON, JANITORIAL SKILLS TRAINING SUPERVISOR
Q: Tell us about your journey at Inroads to Opportunities?
A: I landed at Inroads thanks to my friend Patricia Frazier, beloved Inroads employee, who told me about job opportunities at Inroads. I worked as a Workshop Assistant Supervisor, where I had the chance to meet the participants and get familiar with the various jobs, and then I moved to Day Habilitation. Although, my calling came when the Janitorial Training Supervisor position opened up. I am the kind of person that needs to be on the move and with this job I constantly move with my crew, helping to maintain a clean, disinfected facility. From time to time, I also pick up Mental Health participants to get them to and from the center for appointments and groups.
Q: What are the main challenges that you face as Janitorial Skills Training Supervisor?
A: The main challenge is making sure that my crew understands the importance of safety and disinfection.
Q: What is something that can only happen at Inroads?
A: A lot of people disagreeing whether my name is Sue or Lucy.
Q: Due to COVID-19, these past couple years have been very challenging. How have they been in your perspective and how did they reflect on your job as Supervisor?
A: My motto is “Git er done”, so we are always in the process of maintaining the facility with cleaning and disinfecting on a daily basis.
Q: What does Inroads look like to you in 5 years from now?
I see my crew and I in a continuous process of ‘beautification’ of Inroads, getting every wall with a fresh coat of paint, keeping it clean and disinfected.
Q: Who is Susan Washington in 3 words?
A: Dedicated, loving and fun.
Holiday Express 2021
Inroads cafeteria crew prepare holiday lunch for over 200 program participants and staff members. (Pictured left to right) Natalie S., Christopher R., Denise M. and Lisa T.
Inroads to Opportunities is feeling the holiday spirit this week thanks to our friends at Holiday Express. This year was our third annual Holiday Express event at the center. Due to the pandemic, we enjoyed the 2021 performance virtually. Program participants and staff watched this years Holiday Express video across our Inroads campus, which allowed us to spread out and enjoy the music over holiday lunch with friends and co-workers.
Founded in 1993, by Tim McLoone, Holiday Express works year-round to deliver music, food, gifts, and human kindness to adults and children in need, including the mentally and physically disabled, the isolated, individuals in addiction and recovery programs, the poor and the homeless, and children with serious illnesses. With a constituency of more than 24,000 throughout the metropolitan tri-state area, our priority is to serve those who are desperately in need and often forgotten.
Recorded professionally at McLoone’s Supper Club in Asbury Park, NJ, Holiday Express pre-recorded a special concert full of classic holiday hits and guests from across the country. The Holiday Express Band is comprised of talented musicians who volunteer their time to spread holiday joy to New Jersey’s most vulnerable population.
Inroads staff members helped serve our annual holiday lunch to over 200 program participants. This years meal, thanks to Rita Christiansen, coordinator of skills training and cafeteria supervisor, Inroads enjoyed BBQ chicken, sweet potato fries, green beans, corn bread, candy and holiday cookies.
Inroads resident elves and employment team (pictured below) served three lunch sessions to program participants in our vocational training building.
(Pictured left to right) Inroads ambassador Dale D. with Employment Specialists Harry J., Georgette C., Lisa J. and Diane R.
Holiday Express generously donated a gift bag for each one of our program participants, which included hats, gloves, scarves, toiletries and holiday goodies. Our amazing staff helped us unload and distribute over 200 gift bags, which filled our entire board room.
Inroads would like to send a huge thank you to the amazing men and woman who work so hard to make these events possible at Holiday Express. We are so grateful for your time and talent and look forward to having our 4th annual event next year!
Special thanks to each of our staff members who helped make this weeks event special. We appreciate all that you do for Inroads throughout the year!
Happy Holidays Everyone!
#inroadsto
Staff Spotlight: Tammy Minch
MEET TAMMY MINCH, MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR
Q: Tell us about your journey at Inroads to Opportunities?
A: I worked for Inroads (formerly OCUC) many years ago. The participants and staff were absolutely amazing and had left a big impact on me. After leaving Inroads, I told myself that when my children were bigger, that I would return back one day. In 2019, I returned to Inroads and was able to reconnect with so many participants as well as staff that I had originally worked with. It was truly such a great feeling.
Q: What are the main challenges that you face as Mental Health Counselor?
A: Currently, the biggest challenge is witnessing how the pandemic has changed so many of the participants everyday lives. Some are still not able to visit family or friends, or to simply go to a store that they enjoyed. It has been a very difficult journey for them.
Q: Describe your best day at work?
A: Everyday our program participants will say “thank you for helping me”. Knowing that I’m making even the smallest difference in their life is very rewarding and a good day.
Q: What is something that can only happen at Inroads?
A: Not taking ourselves too seriously. Lots of caring, silliness and laughing as well as being true to ourselves. At Inroads, everyone feels like they belong.
Q: Due to COVID-19, these past couple years have been very challenging. How have they been in your perspective and how did they reflect on your job as Mental Health Counselor?
A: The past two years have been incredibly challenging for everyone. However, the positive is that we are all in this together and this makes it easier to relate and help participants.
Q: What does Inroads look like to you in 5 years from now?
I believe Inroads will continue to grow in number and continue to succeed in helping participants reach their goals.
Q: Who is Tammy Minch in 3 words?
A: Compassionate, Sincere, Fun.
Tammy Minch pictured with Inroads Day Habilitation during our Thanksgiving Turkey Arts and Craft project.
Union County Workforce Development Board Appoints Cyndy Walsh Rintzler to Chair Disabilities Committee.
Inroads to Opportunities’ Director of Advocacy and Quality Assurance, Cyndy Walsh Rintzler, LPC, has been appointed to chair the Union County Workforce Development Board - Disabilities Committee.
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.
(Pictured Left to Right) Director of Advocacy and Quality Assurance, Cyndy Walsh Rintzler with ACCSES New Jersey CEO Mohsen Badran, Congressman Leonard Lance and Inroads Board Member Janis Arindell. ACCSES New Jersey, Day on The Hill 2018.
Since 1959, Inroads to Opportunities, formerly the Occupational Center of Union County provides 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 provide and an approved Employment Network under the Ticket to Work Social Security initiative.
Inroads CEO Michele Ford Honored with Inventive Leadership Award
(Pictured left to right) Director of Mental Health Letty Esquivel with President + CEO Michele Ford.
Roselle, NJ - Michele Ford, President and CEO of Inroads to Opportunities, a Union County based non-profit organization that serves adults with mental health challenges will be honored on Wednesday October 13th, at the New Jersey Association of Mental Health and Addiction Agencies’ (NJAMHAA) Fall Conference, No Going Back: Moving Forward in a New Paradigm for the Inventive Leader in Adult Services, Courage and Compassion Award.
“In addition to saving lives and greatly enhancing the quality of life, the efforts of our awardees support the fight against stigma and discrimination. They are truly inspiring heroes.” - Debra L. Wentz, PhD, President and CEO, NJAMHAA.
For over 35 years, Michele has dedicated her life to serving the needs of individuals with mental health challenges. A life-long advocate, Michele has been a champion for this most vulnerable population by serving on Union County Non-Profit Consortium, Union County Crisis Consortium and most recently addressing members of the US Commission on Civil Rights in Washington, D.C. to raise awareness of choice in defense of employment options for individuals.
During the height of the COVID 19 pandemic when facilities throughout the State were required to shut down, Michele and the Executive team developed a plan so that program participants could receive uninterrupted services and supports such as counseling, medication management, individual and group therapy, vocational training and more. Inroads’ 24/7 emergency wellness hotline was expanded and Michele deployed a plan to ensure participant heath including weekly activity links for our participants at home.
“The last year and a half has challenged us like no other. As providers we have had to use all of our tools and resources to provide much needed behavioral health services. Inroads is fortunate to have an exceptional behavioral health team in Dr. Lim, Letty Esquivel our Director of Mental Health Services and our Nurse Gayle Schaad who led this effort over the past year.” -Michele Ford, President and CEO, Inroads to Opportunities.
Through Michele’s unwavering commitment to her staff as well as to program participants, Inroads has retained nearly all its original staff throughout the pandemic. Michele Ford embodies the definition of leadership and selflessly works to improve the lives for the Union County citizens with disabilities who reply on Inroads supports.
Since 1959, Inroads to Opportunities, formerly the Occupational Center of Union County provides 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 provide and an approved Employment Network under the Ticket to Work Social Security initiative.
Staff Spotlight: Donna Incanella
Q: Tell us about your journey at Inroads to Opportunities ?
A: I was looking for work when another friend told me that Inroads was looking for a temp receptionist (possibly permanent). I went over and filled out the application. Met with H.R. Lynn Boyko and was hired. After 3 months I was hired permanently. I was recently given the role of participant ambassador, helping everyone stay safe while here at training and groups. I have been here for over 10 years and I love it!
Q: What are the main challenges that you face as Receptionist?
A: Beside doing my regular duties, I help/assist anyone that comes to the window (appointments, etc..). Also, when participants come to the window or to my desk I help them with what they need or wherever they need to go. I also help staff out when they need anything done. My position requires me to remain flexible.
Q: What was your best day of work here over the last 5 years?
A: The best day was when the participants were able to come back to work after being away for months due to the COVID pandemic quarantine. The staff helped maintain work in the workshops while they were away from March 2020-October of the same year. I have a new understanding and appreciation for what they do everyday.
Q: What is something that can only happen at Inroads?
A: We have the best staff to help the participants. From the workshop supervisors to the Mental Health Counselors, Employment/Job coaches and Ambassadors. We all help each other out here at Inroads.
Q: This year we went to having 250 program participants, to having 25 staff members, to having temps doing the production. How has this year been in your perspective?
A: Very challenging but very impressive. We hope to get all the Inroads program participants back in. Our staff have been able to overcome many challenges together.
Q: What does Inroads look like to you in 5 years from now?
A: I see Inroads getting a lot more individuals looking for services like integrated employment and mental health partial care.
Q: Who is Donna Incannella in 3 words?
A: Caring, Helpful, Listener.
Staff Spotlight: David Spiller
We would like to introduce you to David Spiller, Inroads to Opportunities Vocational Counselor.
Q- Tell us about your journey at Inroads to Opportunities?
A- My journey first started while I was in college and interned here at Inroads for a summer (2014 I believe), primarily helping with the Transition Summer Program and helping the Partial Care team once per week. I enjoyed working with this population very much and returned in April 2019 to be the Medicaid Biller and a Rehabilitation Aide. Since then, I have helped with the Partial Care & Transition Programs whenever they needed help. In January 2020, I was officially named a Vocational Counselor and assigned a caseload to go along with my billing responsibilities. In early 2021 I began helping with Vocational Evaluations as well and in June 2021, I was promoted to Vocational Evaluation Counselor and officially stopped all my Billing Responsibilities. Starting in September 2021, I will be the new Transition Counselor and am very excited for that opportunity.
Q- What are the main challenges that you face every day?
A- I would say the main challenge is the need to be flexible and adapt on the fly. No matter how I plan for a given day, it’s often the case that the day is thrown a curveball and I have to adjust on the fly to serve our participants and make sure all their needs come first and are met.
Q- What was your best day of work here over the last 5 years?
A- My best day was accompanying the Transition students in our summer program to the Turtle Back Zoo. Seeing the joy and excitement on their faces seeing all those animals was priceless for me. We had one of our students, who rarely speaks during class time, so excited and passionate about animals that he couldn’t stop talking about the animals and reading all the signs and fun facts about them the entire time, so that was incredibly rewarding to witness.
Q- How has this past year been in your perspective?
A- It has been challenging to say the least, but it’s impressive and inspiring to see how many of our participants have been able to adapt and thrive with everything thrown at us. It hasn’t been easy but we have been able to overcome so many of the challenges and obstacles together.
Q- What does Inroads look like to you in 5 years from now?
A- I think Inroads will expand and have more people looking to utilize our services as more people come to know about us. I think we will increase our connections in the community and hopefully be able to place even more individuals for Competitive Integrated Employment. I wouldn’t be surprised if we offer even more Work Adjustment Training opportunities in even more fields of work than we do at the moment.
Q- Who is Dave Spiller in 3 words?
A- Caring, Sarcastic, Listener
Inroads Staff Are Top of Their Class!
Inroads to Opportunities staff members have been hard at work to earn and/or maintain certifications, which help our vocational rehabilitation programs and services annually support over 400+ individuals with disabilities living in New Jersey.
Director of Vocational Services Dan Bagnato (pictured left) has recently completed certifications in Community Based Work Evaluation through Certified Employment Support Professionals (CESP) as well as Systems Administrator of Carelogic by Qualifacts, the data management and billing system that powers Inroads.
“My new certification as a Carelogic Systems Administrator allows me to better support our staff in using our electronic health records system more effectively and efficiently.” says Dan Bagnato who has been a member of the Inroads Team since 2012.
Assistant Director of Mental Health- Quality Assurance, Connie Neseconti (pictured left) has also recently earned Systems Administrator of Carelogic by Qualifacts.
According to Connie who has been on the Inroads Team since 2000, “By earning the Systems Administration Certificate in Carelogic, I am better able to guide our counselors and staff in capturing the strengths, goals and needs of our participants which ultimately fosters their successes and productivity.”
Connie manages our wellness hotline and provides supports to our participants living with chronic mental health diagnoses.
Coordinator of Skills Training: Rita Christiansen (pictured left) recently completed the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) Management Training to continue to support the Food/Dining Program used by Inroads participants.
Rita has been committed to Inroads’ mission since 2004. Beyond her responsibility for the Inroads Food/Dining Program, as Skills Training Coordinator, she ensures that our participants in the skills training programs get real-world experience with food service in our Cafeteria program as well as our SERV Safe Food Handlers Certification program, retail services with Inroads General Store, maintenance services with our Janitorial training team, and OSHA Forklift training.
Rita makes sure that 200+ Inroads staff and participants eat a healthy breakfast and lunch every day; and during the holidays, Rita cooks over 350 meals for Thanksgiving and our Holiday celebrations in December. For many of our participants, these meals are a highlight of the holiday season.
Inroads Transition Counselor Amy VanClief (Pictured Right, alongside students Marquis G., Center, and Chase O.) has successfully earned the designation of Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) There are several steps required to become a fully licensed Counselor in New Jersey. New Jersey has two levels of licensure, Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) allows Amy to begin to accumulate supervised experience toward earning her Licensed Professional Counselor designation.
“Studying for my LAC has taught me techniques and strategies on how to better prepare for and handle mental health counseling,” stated Amy.
Amy has had the unique experience of starting at Inroads to Opportunities right before the pandemic in 2020. She has helped Inroads adapt our hybrid transition program through zoom and kept the students as busy as possible over the quarantine.
Inroads staff members make a difference in the lives of our most vulnerable population.
We are proud of our team!
Inroads Music Therapy Summer 2021
Inroads to Opportunities music therapy program kicked off in late April 2021 and has been adding a fresh energy to our Wellness and Transition programs.
Check out our Day Habilitation participants singing and shaking along to “Hey Jude,” by the Beatles:
“The energy of our group is infectious and puts our participants and staff in a better mood,” says Director of Marketing Bryan Hansen.
Over the past 3 months, music therapy meets 2-3 times per month under the direction of New Jersey Singer Songwriter, Tommy Strazza. Each session focuses on music from a specific genre or artists. “Some weeks we do a group of songs from Motown Era, Woman of Rock, 60’s & 70’s and our course the music of The Beatles,” says Tommy Strazza. “Our participants are always looking forward to music therapy and we love the enthusiasm and joy it brings.”
Some of the songs our group have learned over the past few weeks include:
“Hey Jude” -The Beatles | “Can’t Help Falling in Love”-Elvis | “Free Falling” -Tom Petty | “I Love Rock and Roll” -Joan Jett | “Superstition” Stevie Wonder | “We Got The Beat” -Go Go’s | “Unchained Melody” -The Righteous Brothers | “What’s Going On” -Marvin Gaye
When the weather cooperates, we hold our group outdoors in our picnic area on Fridays during lunch hour. This gives the participants and staff from other training programs the opportunity to join in and enjoy the music that the group is focusing on.
Inroads to Transition summer program has been very active in singing along with the group. We also have a number of participants who join us on zoom during the sessions.
Each week, Tommy Strazza and Inroads Director of Marketing Bryan Hansen choose a handful of songs to sing along with the group. Each participants gets the lyrics and chords printed out to sing, shake or strum along.
In 2020, Elizabethtown Healthcare Foundation gifted Inroads a grant for $15,000 for our Music Therapy Program. Their mission is to provide financial support to non-profit organizations to strengthen existing and/or seed innovative initiatives that address healthcare and related needs in Elizabeth, New Jersey and surrounding communities.
We look forward to bringing you more updates and music from this talented group!
Staff Spotlight June 2021: Lisa Jamison
We would like to introduce you to Lisa Jamison, Employment Specialist at Inroads to Opportunities.
Q-Tell us about your journey at Inroads to Opportunities?
A-I started working at Inroads To Opportunities December 2017. Before this, I was a special education teacher and I was really happy to get this type of opportunity because I was trying to move from working in a school. I love my job, I love being out in the field and watching people grow. I am an employment specialist, so I help people with disabilities find employment out in the greater community, which includes resumes building, helping them to get to interviews, scheduling interviews and making sure they are prepared.
Q- What are the main challenges as Employment Specialist?
A-The main challenge is finding the appropriate employment for the individual. For example, warehousing jobs are usually full time, so that leaves out a lot of opportunities for different people that we would be able to place if they had part time positions available. Some of our employment candidates can’t work 35-40 hours a week, so part time positions are preferred.
Q- What was your best day of work here over the last 5 years?
A- My best days at Inroads’ are when someone I am working with starts receiving offers for employment. If they get a job, I am very happy!
Q-What is something that can only happen at Inroads?
A- Coworkers here are great! Everybody talks to each other, everybody says good morning, so this is a very positive environment. I can’t ask for more!
Q- How has this past year been in your perspective?
A- Well, this past year was tough. We were closed for a bit, so unfortunately it was very challenging. Coming back was rough as well, especially because it was really hard getting back to the rhythm. In fact, I feel like we just started getting back to the rhythm the last couple months, where businesses are starting to hire again.
Q- What does Inroads look like to you in 5 years from now?
A- I foresee Inroads getting a lot more individuals looking for services. We will have more relationships with different businesses, which will allow us to place more people. We will also have more connection within our community.
Q- Who is Lisa Jamison in 3 words?
A- Dedicated, personable and considerate.
Inroads to Transition Graduation 2021
Friday June 11th, Inroads to Opportunities Transition program celebrated the graduation of student Maria A. Our event was held in our Inroads picnic area, which marks the first transition graduation ceremony in person since spring 2019.
Director of Vocational Services, Dan Bagnato gave the opening address stating how challenging and unique our hybrid program has been considering the obstacles of the pandemic. Transition counselor Amy Van Clief along with Director of Advocacy Cyndy Walsh Rintzler presented Maria a certificate of completion for our transition program. “Maria was one of the most helpful students we have ever had, almost as a transition student supervisor.” -Amy Vanclief.
Adrienne Miller-Kubicz, Manager of Agricultural Experiences from Groundworks Elizabeth remarked that Maria was an exceptional student and was great at completing tasks when ask to do so at the community garden.
Inroads Board Chairperson Jill Schafhauser presented Maria with a gift from Columbia Bank. Every graduation ceremony over the past decade, Columbia Bank (formerly Roselle Bank) has presented our graduating students with a check from the bank for them to start an account. It’s a great personal touch to the ceremony and we are grateful for their continued support.
Inroads would like to congratulate Maria A. on a job well done and thank our staff members Amy Van Clief, Xiomara Hernandez, Dan Bagnato, Cyndy Walsh Rinzler, Rita Christiansen, Dale Drisker, Susan Washington and Bryan Hansen for helping make this event special.
We would also like to give a shout out to our community business partners who go above and beyond for our program throughout the year: TJ MAXX, Shoprite Clark, Railside Cafe and Groundwork Elizabeth.
Now hiring a Shipping Logistics Coordinator
For over 60 years, Inroads to Opportunities, a non-profit agency located in Roselle, New Jersey has been dedicated to enriching the lives each year of over 400 individuals with disabilities residing in the greater Union County area. Currently, Inroads has an opportunity in its Contract Packaging division for an experience Shipping Logistics Coordinator. Inroads offers competitive compensation, ample paid time off, excellent benefits and a vibrant work environment.
Qualified Candidates must have a minimum of 3 years of industrial experience in Shipping and Receiving, be able to perform basic math computations to include but not limited to weighing with scales, preparation of shipping documents i.e.: bills of lading, packing lists, and other shipping/receiving documents. Knowledge of general office procedures. Read, write and communicate in English. Must have basic computer skills to include data entry, shipping applications such as UPS and FedEx. Database or inventory software experience a plus.
Job Responsibilities include:
Creates accurate bills of lading as required and makes necessary distribution of copies.
Maintains complete and orderly filing system of bills of lading.
Directs/monitors personnel doing the loading and unloading of all materials and supplies.
Maintains and safely ensures the operation of all material handling equipment by trained personnel
Verifies all incoming and outgoing materials. Performs inventory counts as needed.
Inspects incoming materials for package integrity.
Safely stores all materials in designated storage areas.
Maintains all material handling equipment in good operating order and reports malfunctions immediately to Operations Manager or Director of Operations.
Maintains neat and clean loading dock area and storage areas.
Operates agency forklift and material handling equipment as required and under the direction of the Operations Manager.
Trains selected participants in the safe use of lifting techniques, pallet jacks and wrapping equipment.
Teaches and monitors safety aspects of the assembly line staging areas.
Able to fill in on assembly line for production by setting up material to run job.
Maintain assembly workshops supplied with running product to not create downtime.
Qualified applicants can email resume to: lboyko@inroadsto.com. Resume must be accompanied by compensation requirements. No phone calls please. Inroads is an equal opportunity employer.
Music Therapy Program Kick Off
Inroads Hybrid Music Therapy Program Kick Off.
(Left to Right) Paul D. and Stanley N. strum and sing-along to “Free Fallin’” by Tom Petty on Inroads Music Therapy Kick Off Session.
Thanks to a generous grant from the Elizabethtown Healthcare Foundation, Friday April 9th, 2021 New Jersey Singer songwriter Tommy Strazza kicked off Inroads hybrid music therapy program with participants Stanley N., Paul D., Danielle N., Jasmin D. and Ramon A.
Our group met outdoors in Inroads picnic area for a fun and engaging session. Everyone was encouraged to play and sing along to Tommy’s instructions. Some of our participants played guitar while others either sang or used one of our percussion instruments.
Each session we will be featuring an “artist of the week,” kicking off with the music of Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers. Participants sang and strummed along to 'Free Falling,” “American Girl,” and “I won't back down.”
Tommy Strazza has been a staple of the New Jersey music scene for the better part of the last two decades as both a singer/songwriter and lead guitarist for several bands (The Strazzacasters, Hey Bulldog, Misguided Muse, The DeLoreons.) and solo artists (Anthony Walker, Anjelia, Emily Grove, and Michael Askin).
Our hybrid program includes Inroads participants who are home and eager to learn new music with this group. Tommy Strazza helped direct everyone through the first week of songs by counting off so that our musicians on zoom could start at the same time as everyone in person.
Elizabethtown Healthcare Foundation awarded Inroads with a $15,000 grant for our music therapy program. Their mission is to provide financial support to non-profit organizations to strengthen existing/or seed innovative initiatives that address healthcare and related needs in Elizabeth, NJ and surrounding areas.
Inroads ultimate goal is to offer this program twice a week to two different groups of wellness participants in varying levels of ability. We will remain a hybrid zoom/ in person group until 100% of our population have returned to program.
We would like to send a huge thank you to Elizabethtown Healthcare Foundation for their generosity! Inroads looks forward to bringing you updates as the group progresses.
Staff Spotlight April 2021
Meet Rita Christiansen- Coordinator of Skills Training
Rita Christiansen is the Coordinator of Skills Training at Inroads to Opportunities. She is the person in charge to ensure that the Cafeteria, Inroads General Store (Market Central) and the Janitorial Department are updated with current training, safety standards, permits and inspections and the certificates that their Department calls for.
Q- Tell us about your journey at Inroads to Opportunities?
A- I started working at Inroads in October of 2004 and was hired as both Cafeteria Manager and Market Central supervisor. As time went on, my position expanded and my responsibilities included the janitorial department, which transitioned into my current position for our pre-training programs. Primarily my job is overseeing the smooth operation and to encourage our participants to seek competitive employment when they are finished with our training program.
Q-What are the main challenges that you face as Coordinator of Skills Training at Inroads?
A-I would have to say that my main challenge is dealing with state and federal guidelines, ensuring that my department follows the mandates explicitly. Also I need to make sure that the federal and state paperwork are correct.
Q-Would you like to describe your best day at work?
A- It’s definitely the most worthwhile work that I have ever done, but I have to say that my best days would be when everybody in all my departments shows up on time and stay all day.
Q- What is something that can only happen at Inroads?
A- The fun aspect is celebrating participants birthdays here. They really get a lot of mileage out of that cake and singing the song and being in the center of attention and this does not happen in too many employment situations.
Q- How has this year been in your perspective?
A- Well, it’s been tumultuous, unique and stressful. It still seems to be evolving. Since we did not have our participants, we were not doing the full lunch service for the school lunch program, so for a long time I just organized and cleaned the kitchen. When later on the temps came in, there was coffee service for them and we expanded that to includes sandwiches, but we really didn’t do a lot of business because most of them bring lunch from home. We are still not up to speed but it’s encouraging to see the participants faces and hopefully things get back to normal soon.
Q- What does Inroads look like to you in 5 years from now?
It’s going to look very different I think, especially because of changing federal mandates. I think we are going to be relying a lot more heavily on training programs.
Q- Who is Rita in 3 words?
Organized, Hard-working and dependable.
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