Alliance for Independence Partners with ButterKrust Bakery

As a longtime supporter of Alliance for Independence (AFI), Doug Wimberly, President of ButterKrust Bakery, approached AFI about reating a new partnership that would benefit the individuals served there and also meet some of his company's needs. This partnership started in the Business Resources & Contract (BR & C) Department.

On April 18, 2011, AFI received its first shipment of Nature's Own bread bags and discount coupons. The entire BR & C Department transformed into a new and different assembly line that could accomodate up to 20 individuals working throughout the day on this Contract. Staff knew that ButterKrust Bakery needed to have 50,000 bags with discount coupons attached and returned to them within four days. Although it appeared to be a daunting task, the first day, 12,000 bags were completed; the second day, 15,000 bags, and on days three and four more than 34,000 bags flew through the assembly line with 100% accuracy.

Shirley Balogh, President and CEO of Alliance for Independence, stated "I had full confidence in my staff and the individuals who attend our program. I knew that it would be their abilities, not disabilities, that would get the job done. AFI and ButterKrust Bakery each gained a new business partner and our clients got the opportunity to learn a vocational skill, earn their own wages and take pride in a job well done."