 Founded in 1795, Union College was the first college chartered by the Board of Regents of the State of New York. Its name reflects the sense of community felt by members of various groups who were instrumental in its founding. Today, Union has successfully integrated itself into the community. 2007 marks the tenth year that Schenectady ARC has shared a partnership with the college.
Since 1997, Union College has employed 23 adults with disabilities, including four who currently work in dining services. It came as no surprise that their commitment to helping others and supporting the community was recognized by Schenectady ARC when our agency presented the college with the Employer of the Year Award at the Annual Awards Dinner in November. In addition, SARC nominated Union for a NDEAM (National Disabilities Employment Awareness Month) award in October, for which they received statewide recognition for employing individuals with disabilities.
Schenectady ARC consumer Walter Cosgrave, who has worked at the college’s Upper Class Dining Services for more than seven years spoke of the importance of his job, “I need my job so I can support myself, pay my bills and be independent.” He went on to say “I didn’t work for three months, and then ARC helped me get this job, when other agencies would not help. I feel I owe ARC big!” Mr. Cosgrave looks forward to taking the bus to work every day and is very proud of the fact that he is able to earn a paycheck and support himself. He enjoys his job and takes pride in the work he does at Union.
George Ferro, Manager of Upperclassmen Dining Services at Union, spoke highly about the partnership with SARC, “This has been a great experience for the College. ARC sends us people who are really motivated and want to succeed, and we put them right to work. This partnership has been beneficial to everyone involved.”
Union College’s patience, perseverance and commitment have been demonstrated repeatedly over the years. Union employees have encouraged ARC participants to try new positions and have been supportive in every way possible. In addition, Union’s lacrosse team partnered with SARC in April to promote Autism Awareness Month, hosting a complimentary lacrosse clinic for local children.
We salute Union College for its continuous commitment to creating employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and look forward to working with them in the future. If you would like additional information about how to become a partner with Schenectady ARC’s New Direction’s Employment Services program, please contact Jill LaFlamme at 372-1160.
Photo caption: SARC consumer Walter Cosgrave on the job at Union College
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