Oxford, Mich. – Nov. 5, 2016- Extraordinary Ventures Michigan is hosting their Grand Opening Celebration on November 12, 2016 at 12:00pm. The event will run until 4:00pm and will feature a variety of activities, raffles, and prizes for event tickets! Festivities will take place at the Legacy Center (EVM, SUITE 165), which is located at 925 N. Lapeer rd. Oxford, MI 48372.
Extraordinary Ventures Michigan specializes in employing differently abled adults. EVM is an unprecedented collaboration between Oakland University, Autism Alliance of Michigan and Judson Center. EVM aims to bridge the gap between post high school programs and access to meaningful and gainful employment opportunities. Extraordinary Ventures seeks out niche employment opportunities that foster supported, yet independent work, in a least restrictive environment. Goals include increasing employability skills as well as individuals’ quality of life; by earning a competitive wage within their community.
In September of 2014, EVM began with four employees and a laundry service. This non-profit has grown to employ 15 individuals and currently operates five ventures: a laundry service, indoor organic garden, sensory tools, small parts assembly, and cleaning services. Expanding Suite 165 to include a retail space is currently in the works. The space will allow local Michigan artists an avenue to sell handmade products. With this addition, EVM employees will learn valuable skills that relate to retail business operations.
Extraordinary Ventures Michigan has been featured on CW50’s Street Beat. Through this segment, viewers witnessed the message of awareness and acceptance of hiring individuals with autism and other disabilities.
http://cwdetroit.cbslocal.com/2016/09/16/street-beat-autism-speaks/
EVM was also an influential part of last year’s Detroit Pistons April 1st home game. EVM employees assembled “All Star Kits,” or sensory friendly toolkits. The kits were designed to allow individuals with autism or other sensory needs to enjoy the basketball game with reduced sensory input. The kits included headphones, a social story about the game, an identification bracelet for safety, and of course Pistons swag! Fans enjoyed the opportunity to participate in such a special event!
Extraordinary Ventures Michigan Grand Opening Event symbolizes the opening of many doors for individuals with autism and other disabilities. Employment doors will open, competitive wage doors will open and most importantly doors of awareness and acceptance. Which, in turn, will open doors for employers to embrace the benefits of hiring individuals with unique abilities.
Show support to EVM by attending their Grand Opening Celebration! November 12, 2016. 12:00pm-4:00pm.
To find out more information about Extraordinary Ventures Michigan, visit: www.evmich.org or on Facebook: www.facebook.com/extraordinaryventuresmichigan
