Work Opportunity Center

Opening doors, creating opportunities, and developing careers for people with developmental disabilities

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WELCOME

from our Executive Director

I am delighted to welcome you to our website, the online home of our organization. As the Executive Director, I am proud of the work we do every day to support individuals and families in need.


Our organization is committed to providing vital support services to individuals and families facing a variety of challenges. We believe that everyone deserves access to the resources and support necessary to lead fulfilling lives, and we strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. Through our programs and services, we seek to empower individuals and families to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential.


As the Executive Director, I am proud of the work we do and the impact we have made. Our team is made up of dedicated professionals who are committed to helping others and making a difference in the world. We are passionate about our work and take pride in the positive impact we have on the lives of those we serve.


I invite you to explore our website and learn more about our organization and the wide range of services we provide. Whether you are seeking assistance for yourself or a loved one, or are a company looking to obtain dedicated and enthusiastic workers, we'd love to hear from you.

About Our Services

Established in 1969, Work Opportunity Center, Inc. (WOC, Inc.) is a private, non-profit organization headquartered in Westfield, Massachusetts. With various sites throughout Western MA, WOC, Inc. provides training, employment opportunities, and Community Based Day Services to individuals with physical and/or developmental disabilities.

Staffing Agency
Programming

WOC, Inc. assists individuals in obtaining competitive employment in the community, group employment in a supervised setting, and is a day program provider for the Department of Developmental Services and local school systems.

Staffing Agency

Business Services

WOC, Inc. provides business solutions to employers for staffing and production needs. Whether a position needs to be filled, or products need to be assembled, processed efficiently and cost-effectively, we are able to provide top quality services at an affordable price.

Our Mission

The mission of Work Opportunity Center, Inc. is to assist individuals with developmental disabilities to obtain employment in the community, which promotes social inclusion.


As an agency, we value individual rights; normalization; individual risk taking; empowerment; individualized planning; advocacy; quality services; personal growth through experiences; employment, quality work habits and individual program satisfaction.

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News

Work Opportunity Center, Inc. Launches Work Readiness Training Program in Westfield

Westfield, MA – September 8, 2025 – Work Opportunity Center, Inc. of Westfield is proud to announce the launch of its new Work Readiness Training Program, beginning September 15, 2025. The six-month inaugural session will welcome 3–4 participants, offering an intensive and personalized pathway to building essential employment and life skills. Throughout the program, participants will engage in hands-on work skills training, volunteer opportunities, and close collaboration with Work Opportunity Center’s Supported Employment division. In addition, the training incorporates modules on health, wellness, and social growth to create a well-rounded foundation for success in future employment and community involvement.


“This program has been six years in the making, and it represents a dream realized for all of us at Work Opportunity Center," said Mary Akers, Executive Director. "We’ve poured our hearts into creating a program that truly prepares individuals for what comes next — not just in employment, but in life. It’s exciting to finally see it come to life and to watch participants begin a journey that will build their confidence, skills, and sense of belonging in the community."


The Work Readiness Training Program is designed to foster independence, confidence, and community connection, aligning with Work Opportunity Center’s mission to provide opportunities for people to thrive both at work and in life.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why Work Opportunity Center?

    WOC, Inc. is your comprehensive staffing services solution because:


    We represent an applicant pool with a variety of availability. Whether you need someone for as few as 3 hours a week, part-time, full time, or even seasonally, we have someone to meet your service staffing needs.


    We understand your staffing needs as an employer; our management team has over 30 years combined experience managing the hiring process in various fields, from restaurant to retail to manufacturing.


    We can assess and prescreen each applicant we refer and match each applicant's skills and abilities to your needs, ensuring you hire the best employee.


    We provide initial on the job supports, ensuring that the person you hire understands your workplace culture, the job and your expectations.


    We monitor on-the-job performance regularly to ensure your service staffing needs are met. WOC, Inc is available as a resource to you and your employee to provide assistance as duties and responsibilities change or new procedures are implemented.


    We can develop reliable transportation options for your new hire and even work with you to identify potential tax credits.


    Trust us with all your staffing services today.

  • What transportation services do you offer?

    Work Opportunity Center, Inc. (WOC, Inc.) provides round-trip transportation from home to our facility for individuals receiving services from the Department of Developmental Services.

  • What are the advantages of partnering with Work Opportunity Center?

    Partnering with Work Opportunity Center, Inc is advantageous. Here's why:


    WOC, Inc. has the answer to your staffing needs.

    The average length of employment for individuals we've placed is 5 years.

    Many individuals we've referred are still working 10 or even 20 years later.

    The individuals we refer have proven to be very dependable and have a better than 95% attendance rate.

    Our team of 7 Staffing Specialists has more than 50 years combined experience in this field.

  • Who is eligible to receive services from WOC?

    You will need a referral from the Department of Developmental Services or a school system. We can help you with the process

  • Do I have to participate in all services offered?

    No! We will work with you to develop a plan that works best for your current situation. Your services are tailored to your individual needs and preferences

  • Are there any age or location requirements?

    You must be 22 years of age or older (there is an exception for students turning 22). You will need to live in the greater Springfield area.

  • What are the advantages of coming to WOC?

    We have three CBDS program sites to service individuals in their home communities. We have a strong track record of providing employment and employment services to our participants. Current WOC, Inc. employees have over 200 years of supporting individuals with disabilities. WOC, Inc. also has a history of working with people of diverse cultural backgrounds. We have bi-lingual staff and staff proficient in American Sign Language to ensure that the needs of individuals and their families are met.