For more than six years, individuals from The Arc have been hired by Rider and Gourmet Dining Services LLC, which operates Rider’s dining services. They work five days a week in Daly Dining Hall, Rider’s main residential dining facility, serving hot food, sanitizing dining tables, refilling napkin dispensers and organizing seating areas.
Gourmet’s regional district manager, Peter Ehlin, played a central role in bringing Rider and Arc together.
“We’re honored to receive this recognition from The Arc Mercer,” Mike Reca, Rider’s vice president for University Operations said. “It’s inspiring to see how this partnership has created real opportunities for independence and personal growth, making a difference for the workers from The Arc as well as our campus community.”
“Rider’s collaboration with our vocational program has not only enhanced opportunities and programs but has also resulted in real employment and greater independence for those we serve,” Steven Cook, the Arc Mercer’s executive director said.
The partnership reflects Rider’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive community. “This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to make a positive impact both on campus and in the wider community,” Reca says.
In addition to its partnership with The Arc, Rider Dining supports other community-based initiatives, including a collaboration with Meals on Wheels of Mercer County, which delivers nutritious meals to elderly and homebound individuals.
