 
Special Workers Make Special Products Middlebury, Vermont – Dan Dutton and Jeremiah Hayes are two very special young men who work at Vermont Soapworks in Middlebury, Vermont. Both are legally blind, and are happy, well-adjusted members of the Vermont Soapworks team. Dan and Jeremiah began work at Vermont Soapworks as part of a state-sponsored program through the local high school. "Dan has been working here part time for 6 years, and Jeremiah has been with us for 4 years," reported company owner Larry Plesent. After they graduated from school, the two were offered part time work throughout the year. "Going into the hiring process, I have to admit I had some safety, liability and productivity concerns," stated Plesent. It was a combination of faith in the boys, social responsibility and government support that convinced Plesent to hire them, and everyone at Vermont Soapworks has benefited since. "My fears turned out to be unfounded, it's been a pleasure to work with these young men," said Plesent. Dan and Jeremiah are a key part of the Packaging Team, assembling boxes and stuffing them with handmade natural soap. They also assemble air fresheners. "As human beings, we all need a sense of purpose – a feeling that we are valuable and useful members of the community. By joining our team, I think we've helped them find that feeling," stated Plesent. Jeremiah is known to be the "weather man" and the chief instigator for Dan. Every day is accompanied by a running commentary on the ever-changing Vermont weather. Dan and Jeremiah are very sensitive to changes in air pressure and other weather events, something that sighted people rarely notice. "Dan is a sweet guy, and they both work hard and make their tasks enjoyable," remarked Packaging Team Leader Jen Brilyea. "They are such nice fellows and their approach to life is a big lift for us," said Brilyea. One team member noted that they give her a greater appreciation for the gift of healthy vision. "They never complain about their situation or their jobs, and are an inspiration to the other workers," noted Plesent. Vermont Soapworks strongly encourages other employers to integrate different types of people into their team. "In life, we all have our challenges. The biggest challenge is to find ways that we can help each other out so that everyone will benefit," noted Plesent. For information on supportive employment programs, please contact The Association for Persons in Supported Employment at 804-278-9187 or visit www.apse.org . For more information on Vermont Soapworks and their natural soap products, please visit www.vermontsoap.com (1-866-762-7482) E-mail: info@vtsoap.com |