Contact:
Michael Basso
Director of Marketing & Public Relations
Springbrook
105 Campus Drive
Oneonta, New York 13820
Phone: (607) 386 4852
Email: bassom@springbrookny.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 29, 2024
Springbrook and Vêsucré Join Forces to Launch Groundbreaking Venture for Inclusive Employment and Culinary Innovation
Oneonta, NY: Springbrook is partnering with Vêsucré, a local company that creates plant-based, soy-free, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free desserts to create The Makery and The Maketeria, located at Springbrook’s Oneonta Campus. The Makery and Maketeria are part of a collaborative project between Springbrook and Vêsucré, aimed at providing comprehensive training and employment opportunities for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD) in the food production and culinary industries.
The Makery will provide hands-on training for individuals who receive services through Springbrook to learn food production and restaurant skills, including meal preparation, cooking techniques, and food safety. Individuals will have the opportunity to work in various areas such as food service, manufacturing, and development, and will be supported by Vêsucré’s team alongside Springbrook employees. Vêsucré CEO Sarah Hartmann is passionate about employing people with I/DD and currently employs participants from Springbrook as well as The Arc Otsego through supported employment programs. Vêsucré will utilize kitchen space at Springbrook’s Oneonta Campus to produce lunches as well as Vêsucré products.
Vêsucré CEO Sarah Hartmann shares, “We’re tremendously excited to launch this collaborative venture with Springbrook. The Makery is all about creating opportunities and spreading joy for local individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. With Vêsucré operations now at Springbrook, we can continue to provide hands-on food manufacturing experience while empowering people with valuable skills in food production and restaurant operations. The Makery is our chance to shine together, celebrating talent and togetherness every step of the way!”
The Maketeria will serve as a healthy “make-a-meal” eatery located on the Springbrook Oneonta Campus and will provide lunches three days a week for individuals at Springbrook’s Capstone Day Habilitation program. The lunches will include vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, and refined sugar-free options, catering to dietary restrictions and preferences. The project aims to promote inclusivity, community integration, and sustainable food practices.
Executive Director of Springbrook Community Connections Kim Corbett shares: “We are thrilled to partner with Vêsucré who shares in so many of Springbrook’s beliefs around wellness and Employment First as central to operations. Having Sarah, Charlie, and Gwen as partners in this work will help to advance inclusivity and community integration, bringing industry innovation to the forefront.”
About Springbrook:
Springbrook provides at-home care, residential and educational services, day services, and clinical, therapeutic, and behavioral support to over 1,100 people with developmental disabilities across New York State. The organization is Otsego County’s third-largest employer, with more than 1,300 employees.
About Vêsucrê:
Vêsucrê, an award-winning purveyor of delectable plant-based desserts based in Oneonta, NY, crafts treats that are delicious, soy-free, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free. They are committed to making a positive social impact, providing work opportunities for individuals with disabilities and supporting sheltered animals. Indulge in their innovative flavors and join the movement for a sweeter world. Learn more at www.vesucre.com.