Pathways To Purpose
Hiring someone with a disability isn’t just about filling a role — it’s about opening the door to loyalty, hard work, and creativity. When you give someone the chance, they can surprise you
in ways you never expected.
— Anastacia Mosher-Arnold, co-owner, Arnold’s Flower Shop, Dryden
Creating A Space That Blooms
In July 2022, Arnold’s Florist of Dryden partnered with JM Murray’s Employment Connection team to offer an internship to someone interested in learning the art of floral design. That opportunity went to McKinzie — an eager learner with a creative spark and a deep appreciation for beauty and detail.
From the very beginning, Arnold’s demonstrated an unwavering commitment to McKinzie’s growth and success. Co-owners Anastacia Arnold-Mosher and Marcy Brandt worked closely with her and the Employment Connection team to ensure she felt valued, supported, and empowered in her role. “They’ve always been supportive and open to my ideas,” says McKinzie. “It’s nice, it’s quiet, it’s not super busy — I like that I can work independently and really focus.”
For McKinzie, her job is more than just a paycheck. “I like getting out of the house and going to work,” she says. Her favorite part of the job is processing flowers — finding a sense of calm in the rhythm of the work and satisfaction in the details, whether it’s removing thorns from roses or cutting stems just right. Her favorite flower? Stock. “It’s beautiful, smells great, and it’s resilient — like me,” she says with a smile.
Over time, McKinzie’s confidence and skills began to bloom. In April 2023, nearly a year after starting her internship, she officially joined the Arnold’s team as a paid employee
Arnold’s has remained patient and supportive throughout her journey. Like any employee, McKinzie has faced challenges, but instead of giving up, the team takes time to listen and problem-solve together. “Kindness, patience, and openness go a long way,” says Marcy. “When you give someone that, they can truly flourish.” Anastacia adds, “When given the chance, people will surprise you.”
That understanding and open communication are key to McKinzie’s success. She credits her Employment Connection coach, Paula, for helping her stay on track and navigate challenges. “I like direct, simple, specific communication,” McKinzie explains. “My brain is like an engineer’s — I want the data point.”
Outside of work, McKinzie’s creativity continues to shine. She loves sewing, weaving, drawing, painting, and writing stories — and lately, she’s been exploring digital animation. Arnold’s has embraced her creative side by allowing her to display her handmade sewing projects in the shop — and nearly all of them have sold!
Arnold’s Florist has been an incredible partner. Where other employers might hesitate, Arnold’s saw potential — and by investing in that potential, they’ve helped it grow.
For McKinzie, Arnold’s isn’t just a job. It’s a place where her skills, creativity, and individuality are recognized and celebrated.
Stories like McKinzie’s reflect the heart of JM Murray’s Employment Connection program — helping people of all abilities discover meaningful work, while connecting local employers with dedicated, talented individuals who bring value to their teams. Since 1966, Employment Connection has proudly supported inclusive workplaces that recognize talent, create opportunity, and help people — and businesses — thrive together.
Contact us at intake@jmmurray.com or (607) 756-4041.
