Install seat post, press in head cup and bottom bracket, put on cracks, run cables; these are just some of the steps in the meticulous task of building a bicycle. As you cruise the Cycles Unlimited store the bright shiny bicycles proudly stand at attention beckoning for a brave rider. But the genesis of each bicycle on the shop floor can be found in the workshop of this establishment. It is here that twice weekly Kendrick Farquharson, a student of Hopedale Centre, can be found hard at work, purposefully assembling bicycles.
Kendrick is one of three (3) Hopedale Centre students working at Cycles Unlimited as part of the school’s transition program. Hopedale Centre is a private, non-profit organization founded in 1973. The school has remained a constant support for, and champion of young persons with special needs. Hopedale’s work transition program is a testament to the school’s steadfast mission to successfully prepare its students for post school life.
Two years ago, Cycles Unlimited became the fourth company to partner with Hopedale Centre. There are mutual gains when people with special needs are included in the workplace. Companies participating in the Hopedale Transition Program benefit, reporting significant improvements in their overall organizational health.
In speaking to Kendrick’s co-workers it is clear that they have embraced him and that their interaction with Kendrick has positively affected their lives. Kendrick’s co-workers have a greater awareness of and have increased their knowledge and sensitivity to persons with disabilities. Interaction has also provided them with a set of skills that allow them to deal effectively with diversity within the community.
Kendrick, however, has been the biggest beneficiary. His teachers all attest to the developmental growth he has shown since he began working at Cycles Unlimited. They describe a more focused and confident young man, determined to complete required tasks and extremely proud of his work at Cycles Unlimited. One of Kendrick’s teachers revealed that when Kendrick puts on his work badge each week it is transformative.
Research shows that a person with a developmental disability who is employed has a greater sense of purpose, increased self-esteem and a better chance of achieving positive adult outcomes. Work engenders confidence, self-worth, independence and maturity- true for all of us, regardless of ability. This is immediately clear as one observes Kendrick on-site. Head bent down, a smile of satisfaction on his face Kendrick takes pride in his work and is determined to do it well.
Companies that participate in the transition program are able to simultaneously implement corporate social responsibility, boost company reputation and increase productivity. Kendrick’s keen attention to detail and ability to repeat tasks numerous times without losing interest or getting bored has enabled him to contribute to the company. Maria Campbell, President of Cycles Unlimited, outlines the value that Hopedale students have added to her company: - “These students are not your everyday young persons that want to be on their phone all the time and have a need to always be totally connected. They concentrate on what they are doing and are not distracted. Nowadays, this is a huge advantage.”
The core elements of workforce preparation for students with disabilities are the same as those for their nondisabled peers—awareness of interests and aptitudes, exposure to career options, and building skills—but they require more extensive and individualized support from school personnel and other adults. Students enrolled in the Hopedale Centre transition program are assessed and receive training and guidance at school to ensure that the student can carry out his duties effectively and makes the best use of the skills he has at the worksite.
Sally Foody, the Functional Academic Teacher at Hopedale Centre, explains, “When you look at our students do not look at their physical characteristics. Each child, whether they are disabled or not, has hidden talent and skills. You just have to discover them.”
Hopedale Centre takes great pride in its Transition Program, and through partnership with community stakeholders wants to ensure that every individual reaches their full potential. Companies interested in participating in the Hopedale Centre Transition Program or contributing to the Hopedale Centre are encouraged to contact the school at (242) 393-8924 or email hopedale@batelnet.bs.
"You never know what’s in that box until you open that gift”, exclaims Remonia Russell, Transition Instructor, Hopedale Centre. “Each one of these kids is a gift. If you open up that gift there is something there that will really Wow you.”
By Janelle A. Albury
