Even though Richard has only been with Equal Opportunities West for five months, it has already changed his life.

Having spent most of his time in an assisted living environment, Richard, and his roommate David, rarely had a chance to interact with the community, or have the opportunity to develop a skill which might lead to a career.

Since becoming a part of Equal Opportunities West, Richard, while still a little quiet, has become a happy, helpful worker. He’s learning to take apart hard drives through the organization’s e-waste and recycling program, which not only provides him with meaningful work but also a paycheque.

He’s quick to answer what he’ll spend that money on: “a holiday,” beams the 36 year old, who also enjoys lending a hand during the Equal Opportunities West’s lunch program. “I like to butter the buns.”