When you walk through the doors of Riverdale Mills in Northbridge, the hum of production is met with something even more powerful—purpose, pride, and partnership. For Billy and Marc, two employees supported by Open Sky Community Services, Riverdale Mills is more than just a job site. It’s a place where their contributions are valued, their skills are recognized, and their sense of belonging is undeniable.

Riverdale Mills is a manufacturer of welded wire mesh for the marine, security, construction, and agricultural industries. Since its founding in 1980, the company has employed hundreds of Central Massachusetts residents and is deeply committed to supporting community connections.

Billy Smith and Marc Cardoza, who both receive services with Open Sky, have carved out an indispensable role at Riverdale Mills. As part of a workforce that values reliability and dedication, they are not only meeting expectations but exceeding them—earning respect and admiration from supervisors, coworkers, and the wider community.

A Partnership with Purpose

When Riverdale Mills CEO Jim Knott asked Human Resources Director Bonnie Cook to explore ways the company could enhance its workforce with reliable support for essential, ongoing maintenance projects, Cook reached out to Open Sky Community Services, a leading provider of support and employment services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Central Massachusetts.

“We needed a few employees who, with limited guidance, could master a number of simple but essential tasks,” said Cook. “Open Sky creates opportunities and provides the crucial support needed to onboard employees with different intellectual abilities.”

Open Sky supports over 8,000 individuals in Central Massachusetts, helping them overcome employment barriers through innovative programs that promote independence and community inclusion.

“Riverdale Mills is a tremendous business partner,” said Gail Delgado, job developer at Open Sky. “They are committed to hiring individuals who bring unique skillsets for tasks that typically require minimal training and oversight. More importantly, they ensure these individuals are supported, successful, and fulfilled.”

Billy and Marc were first paired with an Open Sky supervisor to ensure they felt confident in their roles. It didn’t take long before they became known across the plant and offices as the “dynamic duo.” Billy leads with energy and a ready smile; Marc, never far behind, brings focus and quiet determination to every task.

From stocking vending machines to organizing engineering books, maintaining first aid kits, and caring for office plants, the list of responsibilities they handle is long—and growing. They verify storeroom inventory, assist with deliveries, organize literature for trade shows, weigh and package the company’s Hog Ring fastener product, and paint and clean office windows. Their attention to detail have made a meaningful impact on Riverdale Mills’ operations.

“These guys are hardworking, loyal, and dependable,” said Ron Ellis, Riverdale Mills’ production supervisor. “Billy and Marc are tremendous team additions who exemplify true commitment.”

Like their coworkers, Billy and Marc receive employee benefits including 401(k), profit sharing, holiday, sick, and vacation pay.

More Than a Job

Billy, who catches an Open Sky van every morning at 8 a.m. and arrives at work by 9:30 a.m., is proud of what he brings to the company.

“I’ve been working since I was 16 years old,” he said. “With other jobs, it felt like I was just getting a paycheck. Here, I have a purpose. I’m part of a team.”

Before accepting the position, Billy did his research. “I knew Riverdale Mills was a good company. Now I’m not just a member of the Riverdale team—I’m part of the Riverdale family. It’s a great family.”

Billy thrives on the variety of tasks he and Marc handle each day and takes special pride in how they learn and grow together. “There’s a learning curve with all the jobs we do, but we pick things up fast. My real job, though, is to make sure everyone is a little happier at the end of the day. That’s important to me.”

A Brother in the Workplace

Marc, who lives with his parents, shares Billy’s enthusiasm and sense of pride. “Putting together Hog Rings is my favorite job,” he said. “It’s not too hard, but you have to concentrate.”

Marc speaks glowingly of his relationship with Billy, whom he calls his third brother. “Billy’s there for me, and I’m there for him. He’s patient and shows me how to do things if I’m not sure. He stays by my side until I’ve got it.”

Like Billy, Marc thrives on the social environment of Riverdale Mills. “I meet new people here all the time. It’s a good team.”

Creating Community

Behind the success of Billy and Marc lies a broader mission—one that Open Sky embraces every day. By helping individuals build vital life skills, Open Sky ensures they are better prepared for independent living and active participation in the community. Their partnership with businesses like Riverdale Mills proves that inclusive hiring is not just possible—it’s a winning strategy.

“Billy’s job at Riverdale Mills gives him purpose, improves his quality of life, and promotes inclusion,” said Billy’s brother. “He’s saving, investing, and building a future that is full of dignity and opportunity.”

As Riverdale Mills continues to grow, so does its commitment to building an inclusive workforce. And thanks to partnerships like the one with Open Sky Community Services, individuals like Billy and Marc are proving that when given the chance, they don’t just fill a role—they enhance the workplace culture.

“Every individual deserves the chance to live a productive and meaningful life,” said Delgado. “Billy and Marc are a living example of what happens when communities come together to make that possible.”