For the last 36 years, the First Step Workshop on Third Avenue just north of Hopi Drive in Holbrook has provided a place where developmentally disabled adults can go to work, learn skills or participate in an on-site day program. Now facing a critical budget shortfall, First Step Workshop is struggling to continue its operations.
Due to the minimum wage increase approved by voters in November, the center will need to increase its revenues by $20,000 to continue employing the staff at First Step.
“We’re going to try for a grant, but none are for wages, they can only help with things like computers and repairs,” said Executive Director Helen Lucero. “We will start raising prices to see if we can make more profit.”
Prices at the store will go up beginning Feb. 1 and to save money immediately, one employee transitioned to part-time work. Lucero hopes that will be temporary, as she fears cuts in hours might lead to cuts in state funding.
“This is the scariest it’s ever been for us,” remarked Day Program Manager Hiedi Karges.
The center operates from two adjacent buildings. In the rear is a thrift store that provides operating revenues and job skill opportunities for clients who participate in manning the store, as well as space to sort and prepare donated items for sale. In the front building, a group of clients is busy at work making a Chinese dragon and lanterns to celebrate Chinese New Year. Among those in the group is Kevin Shelton of Snowflake, whose smile lights up the room as he says he has been coming there since they opened and jokes that he plans to die there.
Another group of clients works in supervised crews, traveling to businesses and agencies in the city to perform cleaning services.
Because the program offers the vital service of transportation, Karges says “it’s the only program of its kind in a 30-mile radius.” Staff drivers travel from Holbrook to neighboring communities like Snowflake and Winslow to transport clients.
The group is seeking donations of cash to meet operating expenses, either directly to the center or through designating a state tax refund to the non-profit. Donations of supplies will also help the center redirect funds for those expenses to wages.
“Anything you use at home day to day or for cleaning we can use here. We go through a lot of things like paper towels, wipes, soap and especially craft supplies,” added support staffer Colleen Neiberlein.
Donations of quality goods for resale and shopping at the thrift store can also provide support.
Any type of donation is tax deductible. For more information or to make a donation, drop by the workshop or call (928) 524-2721.
