November 6, 2026

​

Dear Ms. Yarborough and Dr. Hopson,

Thank you for visiting CODI. It was an honor and a pleasure to share firsthand the services we provide and the meaningful outcomes made possible through the programs and services supported by the New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS).

​

Your visit provided an opportunity to see beyond program descriptions, statistics, and funding allocations and experience the real impact our services have on the lives of those we serve at CODI. We firmly believe employment is far more than a paycheck, as it provides purpose, dignity, independence, social connections, personal growth, and a sense of belonging. For many of the individuals we serve, employment is a defining part of their identity and an essential component of their overall quality of life.

​

I especially appreciated the chance to discuss the importance of preserving Extended Employment slots. These positions are so much more than a funding allocation or a program capacity number. They represent individuals who benefit from meaningful employment opportunities, structured support, and the stability that comes from being part of a workforce.

​

For many, these opportunities may not otherwise be available through traditional competitive employment. While we fully support efforts to expand competitive integrated employment opportunities, we also recognize the importance of maintaining a continuum of employment options that respect individual abilities, needs, preferences, and choices. Preserving these positions is essential to ensure individuals are not inadvertently left without meaningful work opportunities.

​

CODI's participation in New Jersey's State Set-Aside Program through ACCSESS NJ is equally significant. Currently, CODI employs 57 differently abled individuals on State Set-Aside contracts, providing essential janitorial services throughout our region, including responsibility for janitorial services across the entire 177th Fighter Wing base. These contracts generate nearly $1.5 million in annual revenue while providing meaningful employment opportunities at competitive wages.

​

These accomplishments illustrate the important relationship between employment, economic participation, and community inclusion. The individuals working on these contracts are not only receiving support services; they are contributing to the regional economy, fulfilling essential responsibilities, developing valuable skills, and demonstrating their capabilities as productive and valued members of the workforce. Their success also underscores the significant importance of partnerships between DVRS and community rehabilitation providers in creating and sustaining employment opportunities.

​

As New Jersey considers opportunities to modernize its DVRS service delivery system, I hope organizations such as CODI will be integral to those discussions. Modernization presents an important opportunity to strengthen services, improve outcomes, and expand employment options. Changes, however, must also recognize the diversity of individuals served and preserve employment supports that have proven successful.

We welcome the opportunity to assist, whether by sharing organizational experiences, providing program and employment outcome data, or participating in discussions. I would consider it a privilege to contribute to efforts that strengthen the system while keeping the voices, choices, and needs of differently abled individuals central to the process.

​

Thank you again for your leadership, commitment to individuals with disabilities, and your visit. I sincerely appreciate your interest in learning more about CODI and the individuals whose lives are positively impacted through our partnership with DVRS.

​

I look forward to continuing our conversations and working together to preserve and expand meaningful employment opportunities for the individuals we collectively serve.

​

Warmest regards,

Linda L. Carney
President/Chief Executive Officer