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Issue 1453 March 17, 2012
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Do-All client, David W., is improving his art skills at the Do-All Gallery on Washington Avenue.

DO-ALL ADAPTING: New Federal Guidelines Require Workforce Integration

December 2, 2017       Leave a Comment
By: Dave Rogers

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The legal landscape is changing for an important local agency, but the 65-year-old Do-All, Inc., is not getting ready to retire.

A sheltered workshop is defined by the government as "a private non-profit, state, or local government institution that provides employment opportunities for individuals who are developmental, physically, or mentally impaired, to prepare for gainful work in the general economy."

Do-All, Inc, has operated sheltered workshops and sponsored work programs for the disabled in this community since 1952 when it was formed by the Bay County Association for Retarded Citizens. Thousands of people have benefited and companies like Dow Chemical, Bay City Chevrolet, Quality Bag and American Hoist and Apollo Wheat Germ, and have used the agency's clients for contracted services.

Individuals with barriers to employment are referred to Do-All from Michigan Rehabilitation Services, Bay Arenac Behavioral Health, and private insurance companies.

Do-All, Inc. continues to provide employment opportunities, personal and social adjustment services, employment readiness and supported employment to several hundred people with disabilities and other barriers to employment. It is partly funded by the United Way of Bay County and by Bay Arenac Behavioral Health. Other funds come from janitorial and light manufacturing assembly contracts.

In 1973, the Do-All Activity Work Center made possible through a grant-aided in expansion of employment opportunities.

The Do-All Material Assistance Center was opened as a resource clearinghouse for the community, especially persons experiencing crises or financial hardship. The Cat's Meow Thrift Stores on Washington Avenue and Center Avenue Road allows trainees to gain experience in career areas.

Now the agency is adapting to new rules requiring integration of the disabled into the regular workforce. The shift is to comply with the U.S. Supreme Court's 1999 Olmstead ruling that people with disabilities work, live and receive services in the most integrated setting possible. For work, they should earn at least minimum wage and receive coaching and support as needed, according to the court.

After a multi-million dollar contract with S.C. Johnson ended several years ago, Do-All sold its large manufacturing building at 1400 South Lincoln Avenue and has consolidated its operations. The building was purchased by Conti Corp., a 117-year-old construction equipment firm from Sterling Heights. The firm announced it would spend up to $2.4 million in upgrades and projected 50 jobs would result.

Do-All President Chris Girard is shifting the focus of the non-profit agency to follow the new federal guidelines.

Meanwhile, Do-All is seeking volunteers to fulfill its mission statement "People Helping People Succeed." Mentors are sought for the agency's clients, work with the training gardens and maintaining one mile of the Rail Trail. Do-All has also adopted Columbus Green Park at the foot of Washington Avenue to maintain and beautify.

Other volunteer positions are available at thrift store locations, the Do-Art Studio and Gallery and in clerical work as well as other tasks.

The list of Do-All services to people in the community is extensive, including Kids Sleep Well, a grant-funded program providing a new twin bed for children ages 3-17 in conjunction with a home visit program; Community E.T.C. (Educational Treasure Chest), providing school supplies and backpacks to children in need; Wee Sleep Safely, a grant-funded collaborative with the Bay County Health Department incorporating sleep safety classes for parents; Kids Arrive Safely, providing car seats; Help for the Hungry for emergency food supplies in cooperation with food pantries; Vision for Bay County, a screening process and referral to Newton Eye Care Center; Bay Arenac Diaper Bank.

Do-Care helps families in need of material assistance and Coats for Kids has annually provided up to 1,100 children with coats and other cold weather wear. ###

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February 10, 2020
by: Rachel Reh
Family Winter Fun Fest is BACC Hot Spot for 2/10/2020
Next Article

February 2, 2020
by: Kathy Rupert-Mathews
MOVIE REVIEW: "Just Mercy" ... You Will Shed Tears, or at Least You Should
Agree? or Disagree?


Dave Rogers

Dave Rogers is a former editorial writer for the Bay City Times and a widely read,
respected journalist/writer in and around Bay City.
(Contact Dave Via Email at carraroe@aol.com)

More from Dave Rogers

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