In December, we passed a remarkable milestone — Starworks Packaging & Assembly celebrated its 25th anniversary! Since opening its doors in 2000 as a social enterprise of the Developmental Disabilities Association, Starworks has grown into so much more than a packaging and fulfillment business. It’s become a benchmark where opportunity, dignity, and purpose reside for people with developmental disabilities in Vancouver.
On January 14th, we celebrated the anniversary with a party at the warehouse on SW Marine! On hand were plenty of proud staff members, many of our customers and local businesses, representatives from the provincial and federal governments, and DDA leadership staff.
In addition, we celebrated staff members who have been with Starworks for several years.
Starworks emerged out of DDA’s long history of supporting vocational training and employment options for people with disabilities, a legacy stretching back decades.
Over the past 25 years, Starworks has provided workplace skills and confidence-building opportunities that go far beyond the warehouse floor. We’ve paid millions of dollars in wages and employed over 100 people with multiple disabilities, while sustaining a business with no government funding.
“Starworks is a great example of community. From the staff, government agencies and businesses – all working together to create a successful and enduring enterprise.” – Mark Zuberbuhler, DDA CEO
As Starworks looks to the future, its mission remains as vital as ever: to champion meaningful work, community belonging, and economic participation for adults with developmental disabilities. Here’s to another 25 years of success!
