Albert Einstein once said that creativity is just “intelligence having fun.” Sure, the guy gave us the theory of relativity, but this quote is really where his genius shines. After all, what he said is true: You can’t make something special if your brain and heart aren’t into it at the same time. This is a mentality the students embody each and every day!
Mid-Valley is a 501(c)(3) that works with special needs students in the northern suburbs of Illinois. The organization’s goal is to empower their students to grow beyond their limitations and thrive in the professional world. This has led to everything from on-the-job work training to a fully operational in-house business!
All of this entrepreneurial spirit deserves to be rewarded, which is why we’re proud to support Mid-Valley with a $500 donation of free promotional products through the Give Your Brand a Hand giveaway from Quality Logo Products.
Enough about us, though, let’s get into the full story of this incredible organization!
Creating a Business from Scratch… Literally
The students at Mid-Valley are not just going to school. They’re also running a business.
In their “Maker’s Space,” they create more than just your typical summer camp crafts like noodle necklaces and beaded keychains. Rather, they dream up unique designs and useful items that are eventually sold to local businesses and farmer’s markets.
The kids can do it all – personalized coasters, vinyl wrapped coffee tumblers and water bottles, and seasonal favorites like wreaths and greeting cards.
Not to mention, they also serve up delicious treats that can be ordered via Google Forms and are sure to give your typical Jewel or Mariano’s bakery a run for their money!
It also goes to show how much can be created with just some imagination and effort!
“The kids have a lot of ownership of what
they’re creating.”
– Meg B., Mid-Valley Liaison
Something for the Résumé
The best part of all this hard work is that the kids at Mid-Valley learn new technologies and skills along the way. They can operate an embossing machine or cut up and measure vinyl. They know how to make a delicious cookie cake from scratch and process order forms.
These are skills that will come with them when they graduate from the program and seek employment in the bigger world.
The students also get the opportunity to practice these new skills at local businesses. With the help of teaching assistants known as “job coaches,” they go to an actual store, like Portillo’s or Home Goods, and practice everything they learn. They also pick up new skills along the way, like taking direction from an adult who isn’t their mom or teacher or going to lunch and cleaning up afterwards.
Whether it’s working as a line cook or assembling lamps, these students ultimately value the opportunity to put on a uniform and say, “I’m going to work.”
“The idea behind this program is always to create
employable skills.
They’re learning how to take direction, make corrections,
and problem solve.”
– Meg. B., Mid-Valley Liaison
A New Opportunity to Experience the Ordinary
Like any good business owners, the students at Mid-Valley understand the importance of branding and marketing. They even made their own logo! And while they could probably make promotional products on their own (they’re embossing experts, after all!), it’s always great to have a little help from your friends!
Quality Logo Products was proud to do our part with a $500 credit through our Give Your Brand a Hand giveaway. Mid-Valley ordered custom stickers and aprons, both of which featured their eye-catching design.
Both of these items will give the kids a chance to build their brand and “Experience the ordinary.” They’ll get to put on that apron, package their products with the sticker, and take pride in saying: “hey, I’m going to work.”
“These items identify who we are and what our
business is about. It gives the kids a sense of belonging and to see what they
do for Mid-Valley as a job.”
– Meg B., Mid-Valley Liaison
Are you ready to grow your business even more? Do you have a story to share? Sign up for your $500 in free promotional products today at www.giveyourbrandahand.com!
Alyssa Mertes
Alyssa Mertes is an expert on branded swag. She's done it all, from uncovering the world's first custom tote bag to interviewing the designer who created AC/DC's logo. Her work has been featured on several podcasts and media websites.
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