A Former NFL Player's Unique Way of Giving Back
Tyrone Rodgers, a former NFL player, is making a significant impact on the lives of people with special needs through his unique Christmas tree business.
A Business with a Purpose
Rodgers Christmas Trees, located in Anaheim, is more than just a place to buy holiday trees. It's a hub for providing opportunities and teaching valuable skills to individuals who often face barriers in the job market.
The Journey Begins
Rodgers initially focused on hiring individuals recently released from jail. However, a decade ago, his perspective shifted due to his son, Jhai, who is on the autism spectrum. Rodgers wanted to create opportunities for others like his son, so he partnered with a local group home company to employ individuals with special needs.
Hands-On Experience
The employees at Rodgers Christmas Trees are involved in every aspect of the business:
- Assisting customers in selecting and wrapping their trees
- Handling the checkout process
This hands-on experience helps them develop skills that are useful beyond the holiday season.
Empowering Employees
On December 22nd, Rodgers hands over the reins to his employees. They elect a leader and manage the operations of the tree farm. The profits earned during this time serve as a holiday bonus for the employees, who look forward to working at the farm all year long.
Challenging Misconceptions
Rodgers aims to challenge the misconceptions surrounding the abilities of individuals with special needs. He hopes that his business model will inspire other entrepreneurs to provide similar opportunities. By giving these individuals a chance, Rodgers believes that their true potential can be unveiled.
