Springboro – A local nonprofit partnership is helping adults with developmental disabilities gain real‑world work experience through the Good Connections program run by Goodwill Easterseals. The initiative, which launched about a year ago, has already graduated 44 participants and is now training 24 more.

Hands‑on training in a commercial kitchen

Each Wednesday morning, participants take over the Busy Bee Shared Kitchen, a commercial‑size facility that welcomes community groups to rent space. Under the guidance of job coaches, they slice cantaloupe, prepare beef stroganoff and other dishes that are later donated to the Goodwill Easterseals senior‑citizen program. The cooking experience is paired with paid work in the Good Connections Café, giving trainees a steady paycheck while they hone their skills.

Expanding opportunities beyond the kitchen

In addition to culinary work, trainees can earn wages by assisting in the Good Connections Boutique, a retail outlet that showcases handmade items and community‑produced goods. “Seeing their excitement every day, watching them learn hands‑on tasks with the support of job coaches, is incredibly rewarding,” said MacKenzie Hill, manager of Good Connections.

Pathways to permanent employment

After participants master a skill set, the program collaborates with the Montgomery County Board of Commissioners to identify permanent job placements. “We don’t just throw them out there; we work with the county to secure meaningful employment that matches their abilities,” Hill explained.

Community impact and future growth

The program’s success has drawn praise from local businesses and volunteers who see the value of inclusive hiring. Hill expressed optimism that the model will expand to serve more adults with disabilities across the region, reinforcing Springboro’s commitment to a supportive, faith‑centered community.

For more information about volunteering or supporting the Good Connections program, contact Goodwill Easterseals at their Springboro office.

Original reporting: WHIO-TV Dayton (local) — read the source article.