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Local Voices

TONS OF PLASTIC BAGS DESTINED FOR NEW PRODUCT PRODUCTION THANKS TO GROWING SORT EFFORT BY PROACT'S PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES IN EAGAN

People with disabilities at ProAct sorted thousands of pounds of plastic bags for recycling after taking collections from area businesses, condominiums and ProAct’s assembly and packaging operation.  These were assembled and compacted for the first semi-truck load shipment from ProAct’s Eagan facility late in September.  It was bound for a Virginia destination, and, ultimately, for use in new products. 

ProAct Production Coordinator Jennifer Cavalier, standing near the shipment, said plastic sorting is some of the best work for individuals with disabilities, and helps people to enhance their fine and gross motor skills.  “They work more effectively, and they’re productive,” she said.  As material collections continue to rise, she estimates the nonprofit will be able to ship about 20,000 pounds of plastic for recycling every 7 to 10 weeks.  On the forklift is ProAct Director of Production Services, Dave Cavalier.

The recycling effort is connected with the “It’s in the Bag” shrink film and plastic bag recycling program led by the Recycling Association of Minnesota. 

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ProAct’s mission is to serve individuals experiencing barriers to employment and self-sufficiency due to intellectual and developmental disabilities, physical disabilities, mental health issues, traumatic brain injuries, and other challenges.  Learn more at proactinc.org.





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