He is a janitor, a delivery man, a lawn care provider, a snow removal aid and a volunteer. Occupational Development Center’s (ODC), Larry Bilyue is a man who wears many different hats.
Bilyue was unemployed for two years before completing a work assessment in 2000 with ODC, a non-profit of northern Minnesota that provides individuals with disabilities with the skills and opportunities to find suitable, sustainable employment.
After completing a work assessment Bilyue worked as a janitor at Stovey Pharmaceutical with Service Master for seven years.
Since then, Bilyue has become a highly valued member of the Baudette community where he works as a janitor at the Lake of the Woods Arena, delivers laundry to and from the county jail and hospital, volunteers at the Baudette Senior Center, cuts grass and removes snow for those around town.
“ODC means a lot to me,” Bilyue said. “If I didn’t have ODC, I don’t know where I would be right now.”
Bilyue’s successful employment through ODC and his personal drive to stay employes has allowed him to buy his own home, truck, brand new off the show floor mower and snow blower.
“ODC has helped me considerably,” Bilyue said gratefully.
The ODC Mission, which reads as follows: To develop the skills of individuals with disabilities by providing opportunities for suitable, sustainable employment that result in greater independence, has served Bilyue to the fullest.
ODC is filled with joy to see Bilyue continue to succeed and grow.
With 13 different locations scattered around northern Minnesota, ODC works to enhance the skills of each individual as they work towards finding and keeping quality employment in their communities.
Find out more by visiting: www.odcmn.com
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