Recognizing Value: Comprenew’s Partnership with Beyond26
“I would strongly encourage other employers to take a look at talking with Beyond26. Just reach out to them. That will open your mind even more to what could be possible. You are probably the one who will benefit the most. That’s certainly what has happened with Comprenew.” — Scott VanderKooy, President, Comprenew
The Partnership
When Comprenew launched a new program for disassembling electronics, they decided to base the program on employing people living with autism. Comprenew is a certified electronic recycling and data security company working with technology. But, as Scott says, their work is really about protecting and valuing people. So, their first call was to Beyond26.
The Impact
For the Company:
- Dedicated, Trainable Employees: Beyond26 jobseekers like Jacob bring enthusiasm and eagerness to learn, requiring minimal supervision once trained
- Mission Alignment: The partnership reinforces Comprenew’s core mission of recognizing and protecting value, not just in technology, but in people
- Enhanced Customer Experience: Comprenew reports its customers benefit significantly from the work of their Beyond26 employees
- Reliable Staffing Solution: Access to committed employees who show up consistently and take pride in their work
For the Employees:
- Meaningful Employment: Employees like Jacob gain valuable skills in electronics and the workplace
- Financial Independence: Jacob noted why he has a paying job to help his mom and sister: “I try to help with their life as best as I can because they help me a lot and I like to return the favor.”
- Skills Training: Employees develop specialized skills aligned with their interests; Jacob noted he’s learning “the ins and outs of electronics” with the goal of building his own PC
Why It Works
Christopher Brennan, Director of Recycling Operations at Comprenew, highlights how Beyond26 “makes it easy to partner and find the best jobseekers for the role.” He values how Beyond26 introduces potential employees not just for their skills and experience, but as complete individuals.
The success of this partnership demonstrates that inclusive hiring isn’t charity—it’s good business. Comprenew emphasizes that employers aren’t just providing a service; they’re gaining valuable team members who bring unique perspectives and abilities.
The Bigger Picture
At its core, this partnership exemplifies Comprenew’s foundational philosophy: recognizing true value. As Scott VanderKooy explains, “We work with technology and data all the time, but it’s not about that. It’s really about people… And our job is to protect and value it.”
By partnering with Beyond26, Comprenew has discovered that inclusive employment benefits everyone—the employees, the company, customers, and the broader community.