Stride Stories
We invest in the prosperity of adults with developmental delays through innovative employment. Integrated employment is positions held by people with disabilities in typical workplace settings where they earn at least minimum wage and are paid directly by the employer. At Stride, this includes Paid Time Off and a retirement plan for all employees, regardless of ability. Our special needs employees may hold jobs where tasks and conditions of work are customized to match the characteristics of the worker and the needs of the employer.
Since the inception of Stride in 1981, Marie has been an integral part of our team, earning the affectionate nickname 'La Jefa,' which means 'The Boss.' Marie's role at Stride goes beyond her job description, embodying the spirit of leadership and the heart of our mission
James came to us fresh out of High School and has advanced to Shipping Assistant. James is serious and productive and has a beautiful mind which constantly amazes us. Give him any date plus the year and he can tell you the day of the week it feel on!!
Peter, our beloved resident artist, retired in 2023 after 42 years of service. His impact continues through Peter's Paycheck, a non-profit founded in his honor. Now, he volunteers with the organization monthly.
We sadly lost dear Vaden in 2021. He was always offering to help do any job, loved his work and the Stride family. We miss his eternal smile.
Victor advanced from the QA tables to machine operator before becoming the Head of our Shipping and Receiving Department. He retired after 36 years of service.
Diana is our go-to person for the more complicated tasks that her peers may find intimidating. She has a resilience that translates into a strong work ethic coupled with a heightened awareness and attentiveness to the task at hand.
Jude excelled in mastering new tasks and had a remarkable ability to train others in an easily understandable manner. After dedicating 25 years of service to Stride, he chose to leave in order to devote himself to caring for his elderly parents. A respected member of the Jemez Pueblo, Jude actively participates in his pueblo's culture and heritage
It is with a heavy heart that we reflect on the journey of Barbara, the visionary founder of Stride, who was a beacon of hope and opportunity for adults with developmental delays. Her unwavering dedication and passion not only shaped the lives of countless individuals but also carved out a lasting legacy of compassion and inclusion. Tragically, Barbara is no longer with us, but her impact continues to resonate deeply within our family business and the communities she touched.
Though Barbara faced the challenges of severe dementia in her final years, her spirit never wavered. The fading of her memories and cognitive abilities was a sorrowful reminder of life’s unpredictable nature. Still, we take solace in the resilience and courage of the very individuals Barbara worked tirelessly to uplift. Her legacy lives on in every life she touched, and we are committed to carrying it forward with the same dedication, love, and compassion she exemplified every day.