A Former NFL Player's Unique Way of Giving Back

Tyrone Rodgers, a former NFL player, is making a difference in the lives of people with special needs through his Christmas tree business. Rodgers Christmas Trees, located in Anaheim, is not just about selling trees; it's about providing opportunities and teaching valuable skills to those who often face barriers in the job market. Rodgers' journey began with a focus on hiring individuals recently released from jail. However, a decade ago, his perspective shifted due to his son, Jhai, who is on the autism spectrum. Rodgers wanted to create opportunities for others like his son, so he partnered with a local group home company to employ individuals with special needs. The employees at Rodgers Christmas Trees are involved in every aspect of the business, from assisting customers in selecting and wrapping their trees to handling the checkout process. This hands-on experience helps them develop skills that are useful beyond the holiday season. On December 22nd, Rodgers hands over the reins to his employees. They elect a leader and manage the operations of the tree farm. The profits earned during this time serve as a holiday bonus for the employees, who look forward to working at the farm all year long. Rodgers aims to challenge the misconceptions surrounding the abilities of individuals with special needs. He hopes that his business model will inspire other entrepreneurs to provide similar opportunities. By giving these individuals a chance, Rodgers believes that their true potential can be unveiled.