ArcWorks—Adult Life Experiences
As part of a partnership between Mary Cariola and The Arc of Monroe County, students learn to enjoy work—and prepare for life after graduation.
Monday mornings, Justin, John, Shawn and Teyivi make their way to the ArcWorks sheltered workshop, located at the former Valeo plant on Lyell Avenue in Rochester. They’re teamed up with other young adults to tackle a variety of contract projects from local businesses. Their pay is based on their productivity, and typical jobs include:
- Labeling
- Packaging
- Assembling
- Preparing boxes and trays for parts
Steve Leach, The Arc of Monroe County’s product supervisor, says, “It’s great having them here ... I just tell them what they need to do and they get right to it. And they do fantastic work.”
Mary Cariola’s PALS program prepares older students for adult life. It includes responsibilities both at school and in the community. The partnership with The Arc of Monroe County provides a level of responsibility and socialization that makes the weekly journey to Lyell Avenue a win-win situation for the agencies and the students.
“I like coming here and getting paid,” says Shawn. “I like all the jobs and I look forward to Mondays. It’s fun,” adds Teyivi. “This is hard work, but it’s nice to have money that I can spend or save.”
“We like to have a list of things that they have successfully participated in before graduating, and this really helps build resumes,” said teacher Marie Greer.
The students agree, as they cap bottles, insert them in plastic wrap, and weigh and seal the boxes for a local manufacturer, they break out in song: “We are Family.”