An Anaheim tree lot is doing much more than spreading holiday cheer, it’s creating an opportunity for people who often struggle to find work.
Rodgers Christmas Tree lot employs 10 young adults each year, all on the spectrum, to help run the tree lot. The job involves cutting, wrapping and loading the tree onto people’s cars.
Tyrone Rodgers, a former Seattle Seahawks player, started the business 30 years ago to provide job opportunities for individuals who had been formerly incarcerated and struggled to find employment. Ten years ago, after his son was diagnosed with autism, Rodgers began thinking about his future.
“It started and is still going on to help, it’s with a purpose,” said Rodgers. “I was thinking about my son when he gets older, what he’s going to do, what the opportunities are for him.”
While the job might not be easy work, several employees tell NBC4 they couldn’t be happier with the opportunity.
“I like seeing all the people, customers smile with the kids, especially the kids who like picking their own tree,” said Jose Garcia, an employee at the tree lot. “I like supporting my family, help them out. I have brothers and sisters and we all help together.”
For Clement Victor and Noah Guirdy, two more employees, it’s about learning new skills and building confidence
“My skills that I’ve learned are how to tie down trees, how to build the bows, how to put them on trees, basically keep everything outside in order,” said Victor.
“It helps me with my people skills,” said Guirdy.
Rodgers says understanding and patience make the difference.
“They may need extra help or training here and there, but once they get it, they get it,” said Rodgers. “They can do the job as well as anyone else.”
So while customers come to Rodgers Christmas Tree Lot for a tree, many leave supporting something bigger, a business built on second chances, inclusion and purpose.
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