Vernon Agency Makes Thank You Gifts For First-Responders

VERNON, CT — A local non-profit agency presented Vernon first-responders with some special gifts Thursday.

The intent, organizers of Opportunity Works said, was to "Give something back to some people who have been there for us."

Opportunity Works Connecticut, Inc. is a non-profit agency located in the Rockville section of Vernon that supports people with intellectual and physical disabilities in Eastern Connecticut. The agency assists clients with finding "meaningful vocational activities and/or gainful employment opportunities that fit with their personal goals."

The motto is, " We work together to foster a sense of respect and dignity which enables our participants to work and live with quality of life."

Police officers, municipal administrators and fire and ems officials gathered at Opportunity Works to accept the gifts — bird feeders made by the clients.

(Chris Dehnel/Patch)

The feeders, fashioned in the shape of a heart, can be hung from trees with fresh fruit like apples, oranges or even bananas inserted into the middle.

(Chris Dehnel/Patch)

The clients made 100 of them for first-responders. Town officials termed Opportunity Works "a great partner."