JVS is launching a electronic recycling department called eCycle Opportunities. The new operation will focus on harvesting recyclable materials from everyday electronics and employing people facing numerous challenges when it comes to entering the everyday workforce.
"These jobs will be filled by people with significant disabilities or face barriers to employment," says Stacey Lareau, director of new business development for
JVS.
The Southfield-based nonprofit provides services for workforce development, youth services, affordable housing, and financial education. It will celebrate its 75th birthday next year and currently employs about 300 people.
The
eCycle Opportunities department already employs three people and Lareau expects that number to hit 10 by the end of the year. Those workers will be harvesting precious metals and other raw materials from pieces of electronics like mobile devices and laptops. JVS is already talking to 10 different local companies that would supply them with old electronics in need of recycling.
JVS also has a pipeline of people Lareau and her team see as prime candidates for jobs with eCycle Opportunities.
"We want to have a diverse workforce," Lareau says. "JVS has programming that supports these people. We work with this demographic a lot."
Source: Stacey Lareau, director of new business development for JVS
Writer: Jon Zemke
Read more about Metro Detroit's growing entrepreneurial ecosystem at SEMichiganStartup.com.
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