Some of the crew taking a break: From left, Kathy, Christina, Barb (Head of House Cleaning), Alan, Roberto, and Franckie.
When BCArc’s Mark LaVigne approached Berkshire Mountain Lodge’s General Manager Robin Peck about hiring a crew of individuals, she didn’t flinch.
“We needed help,” said Robin. “So why not give it a try? And we are glad we did. The entire staff is enjoying their company, and the work they are getting done.”
General Manager Robin Peck with Barb, Head of Housekeeping. “We are lucky to have them,” says Robin.
“They are a blast,” said Barb Streeter, head of Housekeeping. “If your day is not going well, visit the BCArc crew, and they will lift your spirits. They are positive, they have fun, and they are eager and grateful to work. We can all learn from them.”
Mark, Employment Manager for BCArc’s Employment Services, visits the crew every day. “The Lodge has been great to hire these guys. I like to make sure new opportunities like this go smoothly for everyone. Together, as a team with this BCArc crew, we are working hard to make sure this partnership is successful.”
One of the advantages to hiring BCArc individuals is that you get dependable, eager employees, and you get a hands-on job coach on site, said Mark, referring to Amanda Sweet, the Employment Trainer who works with the house-keeping team every day.
A BCArc individual also works in the Lodge’s laundry service, and Employment Manager Katie Stocks supports that individual.
The Lodge hired a total of eight BCArc individuals with disabilities. “Our entire staff have embraced the BCArc folks as equal co-workers,” said GM Robin.
Christina, Alan, and Frankie showing off their newly-cleaned guest room after passing inspection from their manager.
