On September 25, 2024, Aramark Correctional Services’ IN2WORK program and the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections (ODRC) celebrated a decade of collaboration with the IN2WORK Gives Back event at the Northeast Reintegration Center (NERC) in Cleveland.
The event gathered ODRC officials, NERC leaders, and teams from Aramark and IN2WORK, who came together to pack over 500 shelf-stable meal bags. These bags were donated to the Salvation Army of Northeast Ohio for distribution to food pantries throughout the Cleveland area, aiding local communities struggling with food insecurity.
The event featured Michelle Dimuzio, a former IN2WORK fellow who now serves as an Aramark Manager. Her inspiring journey highlights the transformative impact of the IN2WORK program, which fosters personal and professional growth.
“I2W allowed me to gain many skills that helped me when I got out,” Dimuzio shared. “I saved a significant amount of money and secured a job upon my release. It gave me a sense of well-being as I returned home because, before the program, I had no idea where I was going or what opportunities I had. It provided financial stability, confidence, and self-esteem, along with skills I am using today.”
This meaningful event was further enhanced by a generous donation of over 5,500 items from Aramark’s Union Supply, a nationwide commissary supplier. Attendees expressed their admiration for the variety and quality of the donated products.
“Union Supply is a proud second-chance employer and was thrilled to support the IN2WORK program and Ohio DRC on their anniversary,” said Thomas Burns, Regional Vice President of Aramark Correctional Services with Union Supply. “The Gives Back event not only allowed us to support I2W in a tangible way but also to assist the Cleveland community. We were honored to partner in this effort.”
IN2WORK has been celebrating milestones with various Give Back events. In March, I2W and the Kentucky Department of Corrections assembled and donated approximately 1,500 honey mustard wrap sandwiches to the Bread of Life food pantry for distribution to homeless shelters. In April, I2W and the Florida Department of Corrections celebrated their 500th graduate by preparing 500 snack bags for the Gadsden County Department of Elderly Affairs and the Hope Harvest Food Pantry.
“Time and time again, I am moved by our I2W graduates and their dedication to this program. I am also grateful for our partnership with Ohio DRC, which shares our mission of providing pathways to success post-incarceration and reducing recidivism,” said Bob Barr, Regional Vice President of Aramark Correctional Services. “Today was a wonderful occasion for everyone involved, and we look forward to continuing our educational and community initiatives.”
