Young professionals who attend the Ulster BOCES Transitional Occupation Program Top-A and Top-C, along with those from the Phoenix Academy, recently came together for a multi-program collaboration to bake 200 pumpkin pies and provide marketing support for a community festival, hosted by local Saugerties entrepreneur in the automotive industry, Brian Morris. The initiative highlighted the power of project-based learning and real-world application, along with contributing to the community, themes central to the Ulster BOCES educational approach.

The experience was the perfect opportunity for the young professionals to develop real-life skills and also to connect with a local business leader, all while participating in community service. The young professionals also learned the importance of time-management and deadlines, meeting a tight four-day production window.

The project was initiated when Morris, who has a strong relationship with the Ulster BOCES Automotive Technology program, reached out to Ulster BOCES Workplace Learning Coordinator David Rosenberg with the idea. As the owner of Rust Free Motors, Morris has witnessed the skills and dedication of young professionals from Ulster BOCES first-hand, even hiring a few as helpers at his businesses.  

Rosenberg mobilized the resources and expertise of the young professionals and it quickly became a collaborative, all-hands-on-deck effort. The TOP-A program took on the task of baking the pies; the TOP-C program handled packaging and delivery logistics; and the young professionals from the Phoenix Academy created marketing materials for the festival. 

What started as a daunting task transformed into an unforgettable experience that resonated with both participants and the community. “When we first talked about making 200 pies, everyone’s mouths dropped,” said Culinary instructor Mike Petty while addressing the young professionals after they had completed the project. “But you did it. You created joy. Each of you played a role, and every family who received one of your homemade pies felt that joy.”

The progression was evident; the pies baked later in the week demonstrated significant growth in skill, confidence, and pride compared to those made at the start. Throughout the project, they not only refined their technical skills but also learned vital lessons about collaboration, efficiency, and perseverance.

The young professionals shared some insight into the impact the project had on them with Morris and his team when he visited to express their gratitude. 

“I learned that we will never give up, even if it’s hard,” shared one young professional. Another remarked, “I realized that something overwhelming isn’t so daunting when you have a team.”

The community’s response was equally heartwarming. Morris noted that families cherished the pies’ homemade touch, recognizing the care and effort behind each one. “They could feel it was something special,” he said.

Morris’s passion for mentorship reflects his belief that hands-on experiences and skill-building are often more impactful than traditional academic paths. He’s already thinking about future collaborations to continue engaging the young professionals in meaningful community contributions, envisioning initiatives like holiday platters and springtime treats.

"When it comes to collaborations, it doesn’t get any more authentic than the partnership between Rust Free Motors [Morris] and Ulster BOCES CTE," said Rosenberg. 

The Transitional Occupation Programs support students that are differently abled and working toward their highest level of independence. The Phoenix Academy, a comprehensive project-based learning program, offers specialized educational opportunities for students whose learning interests and learning styles may differ from those typically found in a traditional school setting.