WOODSTOCK — Project Redemption is a bottle and can redemption business established in 2012 by Lauren Mooney and Emily Langer in Woodstock in the Windy Acres building. Its purpose was to raise money to support animal welfare and local charities in the area. They depended heavily on a volunteer work force which had proven to be the most challenging aspect of the business. They ended up having to work long hours to make up for the time not covered by volunteers, sometimes even seven days per week. As the business grew help came from the work crews of The Arc of Quinebaug Valley. For about two years they processed the donations received from the community and learned the business inside and out. A decision was made to turn the business over to The Arc which had the manpower and the resources needed to grow the business even more. 

Project Redemption now provides a paid vocational opportunity for the individuals with disabilities supported by The Arc. “The social and work related skills that this business will provide are invaluable,” said Susan M. Desrosiers, executive director. “We are very proud to be able to help those we support increase their independence as well as help the community reduce waste and litter.”  By using a network of outdoor collection bins located throughout six towns Project Redemption received donations of cans and bottles from the community. The Arc serves all of Windham County and has begun to partner with local businesses as well. Frito Lay, Rogers Corporation, the Griswold Corporation and Amtec Corporation have all signed on as collection sites. Restaurants as well including The Courthouse, Bella’s and Mike’s Stand in Putnam have also signed on as partners. We have also enlisted the support of schools in the area including Brooklyn and the Quinebaug Valley Community College. “We are offering the community the chance to prevent litter, promote recycling and reduce waste. We provide companies with receptacles for collection and develop a schedule for picking up the donations based on the needs and convenience of the business. The Ellis Technical School has also built special collection bins for use at area outdoor events throughout the year.”

Items that may be redeemed include water bottles and soda and beer cans and bottles that carry the CT 5 cent Deposit mark. Everyone can help The Arc provide this “real work for real pay” opportunity for individuals with disabilities in our community. You can deposit your bottles and cans in a local collection bin, call for a pick-up at your home or host interior collection boxes at your school, business or church. Partner with The Arc for support of your next bottle/can drive fund-raiser. You can also volunteer to help in many capacities related to the project.

For more information please contact Linda Lamoureux at The Arc at 860-774-2827 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..