In it for the long haul

A few Rauch Industries clients have been working here for most of their lives. Patsy, for instance, has been here for 42 years.

Patsy said the people and the work are her favorite parts of the job. She’s currently working on packaging Tasman Natural Pet dog bones, but said she has worked in many different jobs over the years.

“I’m a jack of all trades,” she said. “I’ve worked on [American Beverage Marketers margarita] salt and on machines downstairs.”

The main change she has seen in Rauch over the 42 years she has been here is the number of people involved.

“There were about 60 at the old building and then it grew to 100 and to this building,” she said.

Patsy said she is not in search of a job elsewhere and plans on retiring at Rauch.

“I get a ride here and a ride back. I don’t have to look for a ride,” she said. “I’ll be retiring here soon. I’m 77 years old. I’m surprised I’m working this time.”

Work Services Coordinator Theresa Berry said the ultimate goal is to support someone with learning the skills to make their life better, whether that takes the form of transitioning their employment to elsewhere in the community or continuing to develop at Rauch Industries.

“If that’s here and that’s what makes them happy, then that’s just fine,” she said.