2022 Work Skills Corporation Annual Report

LETTER TO THE COMMUNITY

As I reflect upon this past fiscal year, I am proud of the incredible work our team has accomplished over these decades with creating and delivering needed services and making a difference for our customers and community. This past year, over 1,000 people received assessment, training, employment, education, clinical, art, and training services! We also achieved exciting milestones including celebrating 15 years of providing quality home health care services, expansion of WSC Clinical Services, and a CARF survey with no recommendations.

We invite you to join us this coming year as we celebrate our 50th year of services to our local communities. Since 1973, more than 50,000 people have participated in Work Skills Corporation (WSC) services and optimized their potential by gaining critical employment skills, graduating high school, earning income, enhancing their quality of life, and striving toward independence. All of this would not have been possible, including the continuous expansion of services to fill unmet needs in our community, without the unwavering support of our employees, participants, families, stakeholders, and board of trustees!

As we celebrate and commemorate the past 50 years, we are excited about the opportunities to extend our track record of innovation, quality programming and success. Thank you to all of you for contributing to the success of WSC—we could not do this work without you. We look forward to the next 50 years of changing lives and helping all those we serve to optimize their potential!

Tina Jackson

Tina Jackson President and CEO Work Skills Corporation

To optimize potential

MISSION VISION

To enhance the lives of those we serve

VALUES

WORK & LIFE BALANCE

STRATEGIC INNOVATION

COMMUNITY & TEAMWORK

Work Skills Corporation is honored to receive the 2022 Best and Brightest Companies to work for in the Nation Award. The honor is given to companies that deliver exceptional human resource practices and demonstrate an impressive commitment to their employees.

AWARDS LEADERSHIP

Work Skills Corporation was again named one of “Metropolitan Detroit’s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For” by the Michigan Business and Professional Association. The honor is given to companies that distinguish themselves as having the most innovative and thoughtful human resource approaches.

Tina M. Jackson

President and CEO

Anita Jones

Chief Operating Officer

Suzy Murphy Vice President

Tom Jones

Vice President

Work Skills Corporation is honored to receive the 2022 Best of MichBusinessAward. The honor is given to companies that stepped up to make a di erence in 2022 and showed outstanding leadership in a time of a crisis and social and economic uncertainty.

Lori Koziara Controller

Kacey French HR Manager

Portia Davis-Mann Education Administrator

Julie Smith Development Manager

Amy Sheibar Residential Administrator

Erika Kolb Director of Nursing

Marcia Ransom Employment Services Manager

Natasha Flemings Clinical Services Director

Candice Spencer

Principal/Pupil Accounting

Taylor Picano Speech Language Pathology Manager

IMPACT

FY 2022

2,152 Persons served

1,335 Individuals placed into employment

817 Individuals placed via WSC Staffing

518 Individuals placed via WSC Employment and Training Services

Highest annual salary $27/hour

Average starting wage $15.60/hour

84% of customers maintained employment for 90 days

186 Persons served accessed on-site production jobs and paid job tryouts

Ages of persons served ranged 4 years to 80 years

104 students ages 14–26 received pre-employment transition services

Achieved an 82.3% Graduation rate from the WSC Academy

Assisted 15 kiddos through our ABA and SLP programs

43,917 Service hours delivered by WSC Home Care division

Provided 24/7 residential housing and care services to 14 individuals

45 returning citizens served to assist in their successful transition

53 individuals with disabilities participated in virtual & in person art

100% of customers satisfied with services

100% Referral satisfaction

TOTAL REVENUE

PRODUCTION

EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

CLINICAL SERVICES

STAFFING

EDUCATION SERVICES

HOMECARE/RESIDENTIAL SERVICES

ARTISAN CORNER

PUBLIC SUPPORT

TOTAL EXPENSES

HOMECARE/RESIDENTIAL SERVICES

WSC REBRANDING

Work Skills Corporation unveiled updated company logos, as well as three department name changes in January, 2022. The newly redesigned logos are composed of a modern color palette and updated font. The familiar oval remains the cornerstone of the new look.

Along with the logo redesign, department names were also updated. What was previously known as Action Associates and Action Home Health Care are now named WSC Staffing and WSC Home Care. Additionally, Studio West is now WSC Artisan Corner. Unified text consistency within the WSC family naming convention will help communicate our message more effectively by having an umbrella of branding that is distinct and easily recognizable. “For years, WSC has been referred to as the “best kept secret” in Livingston County and surrounding counties,” explained Tina Jackson, Work Skills President and CEO. “Our goal in creating a unified look and updated logos across all WSC divisions is that it will help increase our brand visibility throughout Southeast Michigan and eliminate confusion on who Work Skills Corporation is and the vast array of services we provide to over 2,000 people a year.

The 2022 Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes superior service and dedication, which have yielded quality results in their area of service and throughout Work Skills Corporation (WSC).

COLLABORATOR OF THE YEAR

This award recognizes creative collaboration with an individual or organization that demonstrates best practices aimed at promoting the success and advancement of WSC mission and workforce development.

PARTICIPANT OF THE YEAR

The 2022 Participant of the Year Award recognizes an individual whose work history has demonstrated excellence and commitment in training, tasks, and accomplishments.

STUDENT OF THE YEAR

The 2022 Student of the Year Award recognizes one exemplary graduate student for their character, service and outstanding contributions, and academic achievements.

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

BONNY GRABER

WSC is pleased to honor Bonny Graber as our 2022 Volunteer of the Year.

Bonny started volunteering at Artisan Corner in March of 2021, when we were located at Studio West Gallery. Her calm demeanor and warm smile are the perfect combination, and the artisans welcomed her from the start. She encouraged their creativity, helped them with their projects, and purchased more than a few of their items – for herself and as gifts.

Six months later, the classroom and the boutique moved back to WSC headquarters on Summit Street. To say that Bonny was involved in the transition would be an understatement! She helped pack nished paintings, ceramics and jewelry as well as art supplies and materials. There were literally hundreds of boxes. Once everything was moved, Bonny got to work unpacking and organizing things as we settled into our new space. Sta were busy working with the artisans, and were so grateful that she put things in places that made sense and were easy to nd.

Artisan Corner volunteers set their own schedules. Bonny was onsite several times a week for three or four hours at a time, and became and integral member of our WSC family.

In addition to her volunteer support, Bonny is also a member of the Women of Work Skills Foundation, (WoW), our philanthropic group.

Congratulations, Bonny, and THANK YOU!

COLLABORATOR OF THE YEAR

ANN ARBOR SPARK

Work Skills Corporation (WSC) is proud to honor Ann Arbor Spark as our Collaborator of the Year. AA Spark collaborates with WSC on multiple fronts focused on providing area employers with resourceful and innovative training and grants to develop and retain critical talent in Livingston County.

This past year WSC and Ann Arbor Spark partnered to train 17 employees from four area employers on a fast-track Leadership program developed speci cally for our Livingston Manufacturing Talent Pipeline Management (TPM) cohort to work on the skills gap of new leaders. We also worked together to educate employers on resources including grants available to businesses. Thank you to Ann Arbor Spark for partnering so well with WSC to develop and grow businesses in southeast Michigan!

PARTICIPANT OF THE YEAR

RANDY KOTARSKI

Randy Kotarski came to the Artisan Corner Art Program from WSC Home Care in early 2017 with a desire to earn a paycheck using some of his skills and the love he has for art. With co ee in hand, Randy became a landmark in the art studio; a regular who rarely missed a day, working diligently on his canvases and ceramics that have sold so well. Over the past 5 years, Randy has grown alongside his fellow artists and has become a source of understanding and tolerance for the barriers and di culties they may be experiencing. Randy’s contribution has informed the program’s ethos of providing skill building and artistic training to artists with barriers in a way that brings forth their authentic, individual talents and styles while introducing them to new techniques and mediums. Randy has never hesitated when given an assignment and readily dives into anything Art Instructor Michelle Acevedo puts in front of him. “Randy has been an invaluable source of inspiration to both the sta and the students over the last 5 years,“ she reports. “He’s like our Norm from Cheers; everyone looks forward to seeing him here and being greeted by him when they walk in.” Randy is tenacious and versatile, and is a sought after commissioned artist.

WSC is honored to be part of Randy’s creative vocational journey and we wish him continued success!

STUDENT OF THE YEAR NAUDIA NOBLES

Naudia Nobles is known for her infectious smile, humor, and bright personality. She entered WSC Academy as a shy and quiet ninth grader and emerged as a bold and con dent 2022 graduate with a big heart and plans to attend college.

Naudia was determined to make a positive impact during her years at the Academy and she did. She displayed great leadership abilities through her involvement with school activities. She exhibited unity and collaboration by her ability to co-exist and work with all students at the Academy. She made every e ort to set precedent and being a person her peers could look up to. Although she experienced setbacks and hardships, she persevered over every uncertainty and challenge. The sta nominated Naudia as Student of the Year because of her hard work, dedication, and perseverance.

WSC HOME CARE

WSC Home Care, one of the few CARF accredited home care agencies, is proudly celebrating 15 years of service to individuals and families in our community. The goal of WSC Home Care services is to provide the persons served and their families with the support and opportunities to reach their greatest potential for independence and quality of life. Over the past 15 years, we have provided care to over 400 individuals with a variety of barriers to independence resulting from injury, illness, developmental disability, aging, and other challenges.

WSC Home care is proud of the reputation we have established with our referral sources and families for our commitment to providing consistent and quality care regardless of barriers. This includes consistent provision of services during numerous challenges including blizzards, tornados, nationwide sta shortages, states of emergency, healthcare crisis, executive orders, and changes to the auto insurance reform. Our amazing direct support professionals truly make a di erence in the lives of clients and their families.

No matter what the future brings, we know that our awesome and dedicated WSC Home Care team will be up for the challenge.

“They treat him like none other, like he is family. My thanks to all WSC staff. They sincerely like him and do their best to keep him happy.”

“I truly appreciate you guys coming through for us during very difficult times.”

“A very caring staff who all want the best for my daughter.”

“Great staff and supervisors, thoughtful, considerate, helpful and do as much as possible.”

PARTNER. Work Skills Corporation was created to ensure people with disabilities have equal rights and opportunity to fully participate and live in our community.

Your gift in any amount is greatly appreciated and will CHANGE LIVES!

A YEAR ON TOUR

WSC Artisan Corner started as an internal art program more than 12 years ago and has since blossomed into a full-service training and retail operation. We currently have 53 artists who participate in virtual and in-person classes. Di erent mediums speak to each artist, so we o er opportunities to explore what speaks most to them. Our artists create beautiful paintings, ceramics, resin jewelry, ber arts mixed media pieces and more. Finished items are available for purchase and each sale provides income directly to our artisans.

Artisan Corner is proud to share that several large artworks went on tour around the country this year and are in high demand among collectors. Our large pointillism of Marilyn Monroe (comprised of 38,862 pins) was well received at Source America’s Annual Art Show in Texas & also Palmetto Goodwill’s Art Show and Auction in South Carolina. Ms. Marilyn sold for over $1000!

Another artist, Austin B. won CMH’s annual art competition and received a rst-place award for his folk-art inspired work titled, “Waves” and this piece also went on tour around our lovely state. Austin received prize money as well as an honored achievement award from CMH. The artwork now resides at CMH headquarters in a place of honor, permanently. Austin and his family were overjoyed and honored to receive these accolades and we are so proud of him.

Artisan Corner is open ve days a week to purchase these lovely works of art created by our artisans. WSC Artisan Corner has been going on tour too! We have been doing pop-up shops inside various businesses and at events upon request. You can explore the work of the artists at WSC Artisan Corner, 100 Summit Street, as guests are welcome to visit and see what is on display. WSC Artisans products are also available for purchase at Etsy @ArtisanCornerWSC. We custom make baskets for any occasion and o er unique corporate presents that make a di erence in both the receiver and the artists that create these gifts of art.

The best way to stay up to date with what our artists are creating is by following WSC Artisan Corner Instagram (@Artisan Corner Work Skills) and Artisan Corner Facebook! If you would like to join our talented team of artists, either virtually or in person, volunteer your talent and/or time, or wish to donate to this worthy cause, please reach out to us at 810.227.4868 extension 101.

CANDIDATES FOR GRADUATION

Jamari Bishop-Reed

Keymaree Davis

Latiana Haywood

Keyon Holmes

Michael Horne

Kayla Johnson

Akkara Jordan

Naudia Nobles

Keyonna Palmer

Jaykob Sizemore

Darrien Smith

Cailah Stephens

LaKiya Vaughn

Jevon Wilson

LaKeya Wilson

WSC BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Terry L. Braciszewski Chairperson

Jonathan Porta Vice Chairperson

David Plait Treasurer

Marcia Gebarowski Secretary

Edward Bottum

Edward Copp

James Darga

Darcy Hoyes

David Johnson

Pamela McConeghy

George Moses

Mike Murphy

Meg Novacek

WSC ACADEMY BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Dwight Fontenot, Ph.D. President

Karyn Goven Treasurer

Kimberly Brown Secretary

Denise D. Couling

Terri Lynch-Caris

FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Kimberle Bowman Chairperson

Danielle Maj Vice Chairperson

Mike Lay Treasurer

Deb Oberpeul Secretary

Kathleen M. Barden

Rachele Evers

Heather Jex

Brandon Krugh

Travis Porta

$116,636.57 earned by WSC Artisans

Over 50,000 participants served in the last 50 years

Over $25,000,000 earned by participant workers

50 YEARS!

THANK YOU

FY 2022 SUPPORTERS

100 Women Who Care

AAA Service Network

Advance Metal Alloys

Allen Edwin Home Builders, LLC

Marueen Alterman

Amazon Smile

Stacey Anderson

APEX Rehabilitaiton

Arbor Wealth Advisors

Ascension Southeast Michigan

James & Peggy Anthony

BackSwing Golf Events, Inc

Brandy Badami

Bader Acres

Bank of Ann Arbor

Breana Baranek

Kathleen Barden

Kristen Berry

Lynne Bondy

Kimberle Bowman

Terry & Kate Braciszewski

Brighton Ford

Todd Buda

Carole Bullion

CGC Water/Kinetico

Jean Cairndu

Cavanaugh's Lawn Care

Chem Trend

Chestnut Development

David Christensen

Classic Carpet & Floor Covering

Dawn Clark

Connie Conklin

Mary Cook

Cooper & Riesterer, PLC

Denise Couling

Margaret Czarnecki

Danco Contracting, Inc

Delta Dental of Michigan

DisplayMax INC

Maria Dockins

Carolee Drake

E ective Building Services, Inc.

Donna England

Tamara & Rod Evans

Rachele Evers

Executive Wealth Management

Fantastic Sams

Flagstar Bank

Follmer Insurance Services, INC

Je rey Friedrich

John Galleher

Marcia Gebarowski

Giardini-Russell Financial LLC

Bonny Graber

Greater Brighton Area

Chamber of Commerce

Patty & Steve Gronow

Hartland Insurance Agency, INC

Judy Herzog

Charlene Hieber

Deborah Higgins

Carter Hodgson Golf League

Howell Schools

Tina Hubbard

Julie Hultgren

Karen Humphrey

J & M Construction Corp

Mark & Tina Jackson

Carol Jansson

Kevin Johnston

Anita Jones

Kim Jones

Rod & Maggie Jones

Jonna's Market

Jacquie Keefer

Kennedy Industries

Char King

YOUR SUPPORT MEANS THE WORLD TO US.

We’re lucky to have you on our team.

Larry King

Joey Kinjorski

Lori Kinjorski

Kroger Community Rewards

Jeanette Kurnik

Steve & Rene LaFave

Lafontaine Automotive Group

Lake Trust Credit Union

Lakeside Service Company

Thomas Lampert

Tom & Eileen Landry

Erin Larson

Livingston County Habitat for Humanity

Livingston County United Way

Katherine Lowry

Danielle Maj

Maj's Services

Debbie Mannisto

McMillan & Associates

Jeannie McMillan

Patricia Mee

Michigan State Fair LLC

Kimberly Minnis

Colleen Monaghan

Suzanne Murphy

Sheri Mike Murphy

Mutual of America

Kathy Myers

Margaret Novacek

Debra & John Oberpeul

Old National Bank

OneHope Wines

Optishot

Mary O'Reilly

Outside The Box Admin, LLC

Michael Page DDS, PC

Patrick Financial Group

Paycor

Belinda Peters

R2 Financial Planning LLC

Raise Bigger

Bob & Dolores Ramsey

Randy Wise Chevrolet

Gale Redding

Redwood Living

Refrigeration Research

Anne Richardson

Brandy Roberts

Mary Schaefer-Sco eld

Janice Schimmel

Carla Schindler

Servpro

Kristen Shollack

Slifco Electric

Julie Smith

Social Eyes on Business

Sophia Avocado Music

Janis Stevens

Suburban Collection Showplace

Julie Tamer

Ternes Packaging

Thai Summit America Corporation

That's What She Shed, LLC

Kristina Tomasik

TooLaRoo

Tri-County Supply

The UPS Store

UTEC

Joanna Varnavas

Barbara Walker

Amy Warder

Priscilla Watts - Preview Properties

Wentworth Real Estate, Inc.

Larry & Christa White

Susan Whitlock

Laura Willey

Wilson Marine

Wines for Humaity