PRESIDENT OF HENRICI’S MANAGEMENT CORPORATION AND BUSINESS ENTREPRENEUR MICHAEL PROSSER JOINS KANDU BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Milton, Wis. (January 5, 2026) – KANDU Industries Inc., a Rock County, Wis.-based non-profit organization that provides programs and services to people with disabilities, today honored 150 individuals for their years of participation and commitment in KANDU’s workforce development, day services, and day habilitation programs.

At KANDU, the organization honored clients for their years of service, celebrating work anniversaries and program milestones that span decades. Each individual received a certificate and flowers generously donated by Floral Expressions of Janesville as their dedication and contributions to the community were recognized in front of peers and staff.

The ceremony was marked by applause, pride, and in some cases, tears of joy.

This year’s top milestone honorees included:

• Bruce O’Brien — 52 years
• James Swetland — 50 years
• Mary Darrah — 48 years
• Thomas Selck — 47 years
• Charles Goethe — 45 years

What makes this recognition particularly meaningful is the longevity. KANDU has individuals who have been part of its programs and workforce for nearly half a century and even longer.

“These years represent growth, dedication, relationships, and belonging,” said Kathy Hansen, executive director of KANDU Industries. “Whether someone is building job skills, developing independence, or participating in community activities, each milestone reflects meaningful progress.”

KANDU’s workforce development programs provide hands-on job training and employment opportunities, while its day services and day habilitation programs focus on life skills, social connection, and community engagement. Together, these programs help individuals with disabilities build purposeful, connected lives.

Long-term participation, including individuals recognized for 45 to 52 years, reflects not only personal commitment, but the lasting partnerships formed between individuals, families, and the organization. Recognition events like this reinforce that every person’s participation matters in the workplace, in the community, and within daily program activities.

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KANDU Industries is a 501(c)(3) organization, based in Milton, Wis. that provides opportunities to people with disabilities and disadvantages. For more than 60 years, these work, social, and daily activities enable KANDU clients to achieve their maximum potential and enjoy the dignity of being productive citizens. Today, KANDU impacts the lives of over 200 clients along with a staff of over 100, and partners with a number of community and governmental agencies to ensure that individual choice and personal development are nurtured in the work environment as well as in other aspects of life.

In 2024, KANDU made the strategic decision to move to Milton, Wis. expanding its reach beyond Rock County to also serve individuals and families in Green, Dane, Walworth, and Jefferson Counties—strengthening its impact across Southern Wisconsin.

Photo Captions:

Bruce O’Brien – 52 Years
Bruce O’Brien is recognized on February 12 during KANDU’s Valentine’s Day celebration for 52 years of participation at KANDU Industries. He is among 150 individuals honored for milestone achievements.

James Swetland – 50 Years
James Swetland celebrates 50 years at KANDU during the February 12 recognition ceremony held as part of the organization’s Valentine’s Day festivities.

Mary Darrah – 48 Years
Mary Darrah receives a Years of Service certificate recognizing 48 years of engagement at KANDU Industries in Milton.

Thomas Selck – 47 Years
Thomas Selck is honored for 47 years of participation during KANDU’s annual Valentine’s Day celebration on February 12.

Charles Goethe (not photographed) – 45 Years
Charles Goethe receives recognition for 45 years at KANDU as part of a ceremony honoring 150 client milestones.

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