Our consumers are always giving us a reason to brag about them here at the Human Resources Center, Inc. Today, we’d like to spotlight two young men who have been making big moves in their communities.

Zachary Potter, a Honesdale High School graduate, recently celebrated his one year work anniversary at the Wayne County Courthouse. Prior to serving the county, Zach participated in the Project SEARCH program at the Wayne Memorial Hospital. Project SEARCH is an innovative business-led employment preparation program that serves to transition individuals to community-based employment. Having successfully completed the program, Zach obtained his first job at the courthouse where he remains over a year later.

This huge accomplishment is a result of Zach’s incredible work ethic and ability to adjust to changing expectations, specifically after returning to his role in the maintenance department following the COVID-19 layoff. His steadfast support system of family, co-workers, and job coaches played a key role in helping Zach achieve this milestone. His former job coach and HRC employee, Ariel Hoherchak, explains, “pandemic-related routine changes helped to make his role easier on him, improving his work amazingly!” Another job coach and HRC employee, Megan Sherman, remarks, “Zach isn’t one for the spotlight. He does his job with focus and doesn’t expect accolades.” She adds, “he is reliable and rarely misses a day of work. I’m happy to be part of his team!”

HRC Director of Career Options and Development, Sean Donohoe, couldn’t be more thrilled for Zach’s latest achievement and hopes there are many more years to come. “We are so proud of him,” Sean says. Congratulations, Zach!

But the accolades don’t end there. Matthew Giansanti, a participant of HRC’s Small Group Employment program, has recently headed up an initiative to bring better lighting to Milford Borough crosswalks. Matt’s employment hours frequently require him to walk home after dark, especially during the bleak winter months. He quickly noticed that lack of adequate lighting at crosswalks resulted in cars not stopping for pedestrians at marked crosswalks. Identifying the danger this situation posed, Matt decided to create a petition and garner support for the introduction of more sufficient lighting at Milford Borough crosswalks, the signatures of which accounted for a staggering 130 names in support. Matt is slated to present his case at the Milford Borough Council meeting via Zoom.

In the meantime, Matt has focused his efforts on promoting the wearing of orange wristbands by individuals with disabilities. This endeavor comes on the heels of a viral CNN video depicting a 16-year old diagnosed with epilepsy and autism being hit and handcuffed by Fresno police while having a seizure. The purpose of the orange wristbands worn by individuals with disabilities is to more clearly identify such individuals to law enforcement and rescue teams in the community. Matt also advocates for better training for law and rescue personnel, remarking that this horrifying instance of misconduct “shouldn’t happen” and can be prevented.

Both of Matt’s initiatives were brought to life by Matt’s support team who were inspired and moved by his concern for others. His mother, Karen Guest, and co-workers, Ashley Collman and Sean Cavalone, helped Matt bring his aspiration to fruition. Commissioner Matt Osterberg was also an avid supporter of Matt’s efforts, along with Milford’s residents, who offered their signatures in his support. HRC employee, Cindy Hansen, sums up Matt’s intentions, stating, “he wants to make a difference.” We are incredibly proud of both Zach and Matt’s commitment to their communities and the betterment of them in their own unique ways. The Human Resources Center, Inc. would like to thank these young men for their dedication and service!