Johnson Matthey sees benefit in employing individuals with special needs

What does Johnson Matthey, a global leader in sustainable technologies based in England, have in common with Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health?

They both want to make the world a better place for future generations. Johnson Matthey is taking that notion to heart by providing employment opportunities for individuals with special needs. Since 2011, the company’s West Deptford, N.J., office and plant have employed a small team of individuals from Devereux New Jersey to provide janitorial and cleaning services.

“Devereux offers a host of employment services and supports to transition-age youth and adults, including: prevocational training, community-supported employment and pre-employment day programs,” said Devereux New Jersey Executive Director Brian Hancock. “These programs are designed to foster community inclusion, while helping our adults develop daily living and communication skills, achieve a level of independence and receive a hard-earned paycheck.”

A win-win situation

At the Johnson Matthey facility in New Jersey, the Devereux crew maintains the lobby and locker room areas. The team of five adults works Monday through Friday, for approximately one hour each day. Supported by a Devereux employment training specialist, the team’s specific duties include:

Trash removal
Sweeping / mopping
Sanitizing sinks and toilets
Cleaning mirrors and shower areas
Replacing toilet paper/paper towels

“I believe the partnership between Johnson Matthey and Devereux has been beneficial to both organizations. We welcome the Devereux team whenever they are on-site. They take pride in their activities and strive to do a good job,” noted Johnson Matthey Operations Director – Refining and Chemicals Elba Lizardi, who also is a Devereux New Jersey/Southern Advisory board member. In addition, the Devereux crew is “always pleasant and they have made many positive impressions on many of our employees.”

Devereux New Jersey Vocational Coordinator and Employment Specialist Heather Janci said these community partnerships are a win-win situation: “Employers receive a team of dedicated employees who are punctual, kind, team-oriented and committed to the work they do every day. There is also a large social skills component for our individuals who work in different environments. Gaining appropriate social skills, in addition to job training, is incredibly important to them. We are so grateful to Johnson Matthey, and other New Jersey employers, who provide these opportunities, giving the adults we care for a sense of purpose and pride.”

Get involved!

If you would like to find out how the individuals Devereux serves can help your New Jersey business or organization, contact Heather Janci via email or at (609) 221-6754.

Learn about Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health.

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