SERVING PEOPLE WITH BARRIERS TO EMPLOYMENT

A project of Blue Water Clubhouse

821 7^th Street

Port Huron, MI  48060

(810) 985-9118

           Blue Water Clubhouse and St. Clair County CMH were the recipients of a two-year Department of Community Health Block Grant to enhance employment opportunities for members of the clubhouse.  Given the difficult economic conditions in St. Clair County, finding employment for members in area businesses was difficult, thus, the decision was made to launch a small business.  Based on the interests, skills and talents of the membership, food service was the area of choice. 

     ‘Kaleidoscope Koncessions’ partnered with the City of Port Huron Recreation Department and obtained a contract for a seasonal home at Lakeside Beach.  The concession stand operated seven days a week, eight hours a day from Memorial Day through Labor Day.  Food service provided at the beach included pannini sandwiches, hot dogs, hamburgers, snacks, frozen treats, and beverages.  In exchange for this seasonal location, Kaleidoscope provided janitorial service to the restrooms and the beach.  This combination of job responsibilities provided a wide range of employment options for members.  Over the course of the season, the project employed thirty-nine people and paid out over $17,000 in wages. 

     Through Kaleidoscope Koncessions, members of the clubhouse had the opportunity to complete the application process, participate in training, follow a work schedule, interact with the public in various employment roles, obtain various work skills, and experience the satisfaction of earning a paycheck.  Individuals demonstrated pride in their role as an employee and expressed joy at receiving a paycheck.  The employment success of some individuals created willingness in others to consider this possibility for themselves.

     As a result of their great satisfaction with the services provided, the City of Port Huron has asked Kaleidoscope to expand their services to Lighthouse Beach for the 2009 summer season.