Creating Real Work Opportunities Through On-Site Businesses

Most people learn best by doing. That’s especially true for adults with disabilities who are building skills for employment. At Rolling Hills Progress Center, we don’t just teach job skills—we create real jobs, right here on site.

Our on-site businesses are more than training spaces. They are active, working environments that give individuals the chance to experience meaningful work, contribute to a team, and build the confidence needed to take the next step—whether that’s community employment, volunteer work, or increased independence at home.

Why On-Site Business Matters

Many adults with disabilities face barriers to employment, including:

• Lack of previous job experience

• Anxiety around unfamiliar environments

• Communication challenges

• Difficulty adapting to fast-paced or high-pressure settings
  

On-site businesses eliminate those barriers by creating a safe, structured, and supportive place to learn and grow. Every task is purposeful, every role is respected, and every success is celebrated.

We believe everyone deserves the dignity of meaningful work—and we build those opportunities from the ground up.

What Kind of Businesses Operate at Rolling Hills?

We operate several small business ventures designed to give participants a variety of work experiences in a setting that feels real—because it is.

Product Assembly & Packaging

Participants help assemble and package goods such as:

• Golf tees and novelty items

• Promotional merchandise

• Custom kits for community partners
  

These jobs help build fine motor skills, consistency, and attention to detail—with clear roles and tangible outcomes.

Food Service & Hospitality

In some programs, participants take part in food prep, serving, and clean-up tasks through internal snack programs or occasional events. These experiences develop:

• Health and safety awareness

• Customer interaction skills

• Routine and hygiene practices
  

Inventory & Order Fulfillment

Participants track items, label packages, and prepare shipments—learning how to manage inventory, follow instructions, and work at a steady pace.

Special Projects with Local Partners

We often take on contract jobs with local businesses, giving our participants the opportunity to complete real customer orders. This creates a direct connection between their work and the community.

What On-Site Employment Looks Like in Action

Let’s take Josh, for example. When Josh started at Rolling Hills, he had never worked outside the home. He was nervous around groups and unsure how to begin a task. Within three weeks of working in our on-site packaging room, he was labeling items with minimal support and showing up to his work block early. Today, Josh helps train new participants and recently spoke at our family open house about how much his job means to him.

"This is my first job. I like working with my hands. It feels good to finish something."

Josh didn’t just gain a skill—he gained confidence, purpose, and pride.

The Benefits of On-Site Employment

Real Experience

Participants learn how to clock in, follow schedules, take breaks, and complete tasks—just like in any workplace.

Low Pressure, High Support

With staff always nearby, participants feel safe to try, fail, learn, and try again—without fear of judgment.

Stepping Stone to the Community

Many participants use their on-site experience as a launching pad for outside jobs, volunteer roles, or day programs.

A Sense of Belonging

Work connects people. Our business environments foster teamwork, social interaction, and mutual encouragement.

How Families and Employers Can Get Involved

We welcome local businesses to partner with Rolling Hills Progress Center by:

• Submitting packaging or assembly projects

• Touring our facility to learn about supported employment

• Hosting a job-shadowing or community work opportunity
  

Families interested in enrollment can reach out to our team to schedule a tour, observe our businesses in action, and learn how a personalized plan can include on-site work.

FAQ: On-Site Businesses at Rolling Hills

Are participants paid for on-site work? Yes. Participants receive fair compensation for their time and contributions, based on structured wage guidelines and task involvement.

Can these experiences lead to outside employment? Absolutely. Many participants build the skills and confidence needed to pursue community jobs after gaining experience in our on-site businesses.

What if someone isn’t ready to work in a group? That’s okay. We offer gradual exposure and personalized support. Some individuals begin with short shifts or one-on-one coaching until they feel ready.

Can businesses in the area partner with Rolling Hills? Yes—we love collaborating with local businesses for contract jobs, custom projects, or employment opportunities for our participants.