A captain’s leadership makes the difference in whether the crew will experience smooth sailing or rough seas.
For Schaefer Enterprises, Inc.their captain was executive director Valorie A. Randal.
The organization announced Randal’s death on July 18, stating in a press release that “Greeley has lost an incredible business leader and the Greeley community has lost a strong advocate for people with developmental disabilities.”
“Valorie’s intelligence, innovation, drive, knowledge and caring will be sorely missed,” the organization’s board of directors wrote in the statement. “The board and staff are unanimous in saying that they were all very fortunate to have known and worked with Valorie Randal.”
Randal took the helm in January 1991, helping to grow the non-profit organization from a small workshop for people with developmental disabilities to a large, multi-faceted organization made up of seven different businesses serving the Greeley area and employing people with and without intellectual disabilities.
Schaefer Enterprises was founded in 1952 by a group of parents who wanted to create a program for children and adults with developmental disabilities. At that time, schools in Weld County did not accept children with developmental disabilities. The only form of instruction was in a state institution in Denver.
On March 17, 1952, the organization was officially incorporated and was known as the United Cerebral Palsy Association of Weld County. His first contract job was making beanies for the University of Northern Colorado.
Over the years, the organization has adopted different names but has continued its mission to “provide services to people with developmental disabilities so they can continue to live and work in their communities,” the statement said.
When the organization was informed that Medicaid and state funding would be phasing out support for the shop, Randal sprang into action by creating Scoop It Up, a service that collects dog feces from homes. and businesses.
After Scoop It Up, Randal continued to expand the organization’s services and formed an electronic recycling and baling center, followed by the opening of Express Shredding Services.
As the organization continued to have success in recycling, Randal and his team wanted to “go green” and started a paper and cardboard baling service as well as plastic and fiber recycling. aluminum.
Randal’s most recent business venture was Schaefer’s Thrift Shop at 910 27th Ave. in Greeley. Much like The Arc and Goodwill, the thrift store accepts donations of gently used items and provides work for its customers.
“Valorie’s love for the people she served and for her staff was evident in everything she did,” the statement read. “And, she was much loved in return.”
For more information about Schaefer Enterprises, 420 15th St., Greeley, visit www.schaeferenterprises.com.
