Empowering Independence: KENT & MHS Forge Two-Decade Strong Partnership through its Transition Program
MUSCATINE, IOWA (December 15, 2023) – Special education students from the local community recently adorned Christmas trees and holiday décor at KENT Corporation's Marketing Services building in Muscatine, infusing the facility with festive joy.
In a bid to create pathways to success, KENT actively facilitates job shadowing experiences for special education students in the communities where it operates. This effort reflects the company’s longstanding commitment to community involvement, demonstrated by its 18-year support of the Muscatine High School’s (MHS) Transition Program.
“Our connection with MHS students and program leaders has been an enriching journey, spanning nearly twenty years.” said Sherry Reno, Tradeshow and Fulfillment Manager at KENT. “Throughout the schoolyear, the group, consisting of four students between the ages of 18-21, undertakes various tasks tailored to their skill levels. This year, they’ve enjoyed prepping promotional packages for shipping, building branded folder kits and of course decorating our building for the upcoming holiday.”
The MHS Transition Program is a comprehensive initiative, encompassing functional academics, life skills, and vocational training with an overarching goal to equip students with the skills needed to achieve maximum independence. Activities designed to enhance independence include practical tasks such as cooking, cleaning, community shopping, financial literacy, job skills development both on and off-campus, recreational pursuits, and leisure activities.
"I love interacting with the kids, and it’s even more rewarding seeing the program work post high school. Two past students now work at a local store and always greet me by my name. That’s makes it all worthwhile," said Reno.
KENT stands out as a vital contributor to the program, serving as the exclusive community-based employment opportunity.
About KENT Corporation
With origins in the livestock feed business, today KENT Corporation is a diversified, family-owned company headquartered in Muscatine, Iowa (USA) with operating subsidiaries involved in corn wet milling, the production of animal feeds, and the manufacture of food, beverage, and pet products. KENT is led by third generation family member, Gage A. Kent. KENT serves customers across the world and employs approximately two thousand people in 40 locations across 20 states and seven countries.