Opportunity Works Connecticut

02/02/2026

Valentine’s Day specials will be available at both locations! Be sure to check out our featured “Blooming Hearts” arrangements, which will be offered as grab-and-go purchases for your convenience. Flowers and ribbon may vary & they will start at $25.00, everyone is encouraged to order ahead!

01/29/2026

💘🎨 Our community thrives when we create together, and the Cupid & Clay Fundraiser is the perfect example of what makes Vernon so special.

We’re proud to partner with Studio 467 in supporting the Vernon Cultural District. Make special memories with your sweetheart this Valentine's Day by reserving your spots at the Cupid & Clay fundraiser. Events like this don’t just spark creativity, they strengthen the bonds that make our town vibrant and welcoming.

From local artists to small business partners, everyone plays a role in keeping Vernon’s cultural heartbeat strong. This fundraiser helps fuel future events, including the “Meet on the Street” Festival, and celebrates the power of coming together for a meaningful cause.

📅 February 14, 2026 6pm-8:30pm
📍 Studio 467, Vernon, CT
🎟️ Limited spots for couples — register at vernonculturaldistrict@gmail.com
✨ Create two clay pieces, enjoy small bites, and share an evening that supports local arts and community growth.

Let’s show up, get creative, and continue building a Vernon where art, inclusion, and small businesses can flourish together.

01/28/2026

Valentine’s Day is gonna be here before you know it! It’s only 17 days away! Luckily, we have some goodies in stock. Whether you’re looking for decorations, Valentines for a kids, or a gift for your sweetheart we’ve got you covered at The Gifts of OWC Secondhand Treasures!!

01/27/2026

❄️ Winter Storm Update ❄️
Due to the winter storm, OWC will be closed on Tuesday January 27th, 2026.

Stay safe. Stay warm.

01/25/2026

01/16/2026

✨ We are thriving our new partnership with Habitat for Humanity ReStore in Vernon, CT! ✨

This week, participants from our TSH and EEO programs rolled up their sleeves and got to work on the sales floor—vacuuming, wiping down merchandise, and helping create a welcoming shopping environment.

We also got to help clean up behind the scenes! We worked on freshening up the back area where donations are kept before heading to the sales floor. Our team did an amazing job making the space cleaner and more organized for the staff and volunteers who work there every day.

We’re so excited about this partnership and incredibly grateful for the real-life work experience it offers our participants! 💙🛠️

01/16/2026

✨ The Gifts of OWC Secondhand Treasures ✨Love is in the air… and now in the shop! ❤️

We’ve started putting out Valentine’s Day items. Come explore our ever‑changing selection of gently used clothing, shoes, bags, jewelry, home décor, kitchenware, toys, and so many other treasures. Some items are even new with tags! All proceeds support Opportunity Works Connecticut and our mission of supporting individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities.

📍 45 West Main Street, Rockville, CT

🕘 Hours:
• Mon–Fri: 9 AM – 5 PM
• Saturday: 9 AM – 2 PM

♻️ This Saturday (1/17/26):
We’re accepting can & bottle donations!
Bring yours by to support OWC—and enjoy your treasure hunt while you're here!

Stop in, shop local, and find something special for Valentine’s Day! 💕

We appreciate your support!

01/15/2026

🌟 Community at Its Best 🌟

There’s something powerful about what happens when creativity, generosity, and community spirit come together.

Dan, one of the incredibly talented Individuals in our Design Department, handcrafted this amazing gift using bowling pins donated by
Hall of Fame Silver Lanes. The final piece honors OWC’s great friend and supporter, Keith McGilvery, and it’s a perfect reminder of how meaningful community connections can be.

Every contribution — whether it’s time, talent, or donated materials — helps us create opportunities, celebrate achievements, and uplift one another. This project is a beautiful example of what’s possible when our community shows up.

💙 Thank you, Dan, Hall of Fame Silver Lanes, and Keith, for inspiring us all.

01/14/2026

🌸 We’ve Got a Fresh Look & New Arrivals at Floral & Gifts of OWC Too! 🌸
Located in the heart of Rockville, CT at 43 West Main Street, our shop unveiled a refreshed space with more of our stunning collection of hand‑crafted décor in stock for you to browse! Beautifully created by skilled individuals from our in‑house Woodshop & Design Department in Vernon. From charming birdhouses, unique framed art, to garden essentials & fresh flower arrangements—each piece carries the spirit of creativity and community.

📅 Shop Hours: Weekdays 9 AM–5 PM • Saturdays 10 AM–2 PM
📞 Contact Us: (e-mail) floristtoo@owct.org | (phone) 860‑454‑0447 | (website) vernonctflorist.com

01/14/2026

💡 Meet Sarah – Our Dollar General Superstar!
If you’re shopping at Dollar General on Spencer St in Manchester and need a helping hand, Sarah is your go-to person! She knows exactly where everything is and can guide you to the right aisle.
Sarah has truly grown in her role—sorting and organizing seven totes of merchandise every day! Her dedication and attention to detail make her an invaluable part of the team.
She loves her job and enjoys the rewards of her success—especially on paydays! Sarah’s story is a shining example of how meaningful employment builds confidence and independence.
👏 Join us in celebrating Sarah’s hard work and success!

01/13/2026

🌟 Let’s Break Records & Keep Our Community Green! 🌟
Did you know OWC has a robust recycling program right here in your community? Thanks to hard work and amazing community participation, our folks collected and recycled over 120,000 cans last year!
✅ How You Can Help:
Donate your cans and bottles to support our mission:
📍 Drop-off Location:
OWC Front Entrance – 45 West Main St, Vernon, CT
Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 AM–1 PM
After Hours: Leave donations behind the building in front of the red shed.
📍 Weekend Option:
Secondhand Treasures Thrift Store – Saturdays, 9 AM–2 PM
💯 100% of your participation benefits our individuals and helps us keep our communities green. Let’s shatter last year’s record together!
🌱 Thank you for making a difference!