A Life of Service, A Legacy of Joy

by Audriana Johnson, Former BSW Intern

Carla's retirement January 30, 2026

To honor the hard work and dedication of staff who have been with our organization through many years of change and growth, we wanted to recognize one of the kindest and most joyful people to be a part of our organization. After 37 years of dedicated service, Carla Hanson retired this past January, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, positivity, and meaningful connections. I had the opportunity to sit down with Carla and reflect on her time at The Arc, learn what made her time so special, and hear about the new chapter of retirement she is now enjoying.

Carla's journey to The Arc Upper Valley began with the support of her job coach. She started by hanging clothes and putting them on the racks. It did not take very long for her dedication and strong work ethic to shine through, and those early volunteer experiences grew into her career that would span more than three decades.

Throughout her time at The Arc, Carla worked in the thrift store, where she would complete a variety of tasks including general cleaning and hanging clothing, and assisting customers with their needs. When asked what she had enjoyed most about her job, she excitedly discussed her love for organizing clothing, discovering the unique styles, and helping place items upon the sales floor for the shoppers to enjoy. Just as meaningful as her actual work were the relationships she built over the years. She spoke fondly of both her coworkers and the many customers she had met.

When reflecting on her career, Carla stated that what she is most proud of is simply being known as a good worker; receiving recognition for her dedication and reliability meant a great deal to her and helped motivate her throughout her years of employment. She spoke highly of her coworkers who had supported her along the way, who were always willing to answer her questions, talk through challenges she was facing, and offer her guidance when needed. When asked how her skills developed during her time at The Arc, Carla explained that she felt she improved tremendously. The experiences she gained throughout her career, along with the encouragement she received from supervisors, coworkers, job coaches, and support providers, helped her successfully navigate many life transitions and become the independent person she is today.

Carla’s career extends far beyond her time at The Arc; She completed job training through Agassiz Training Center, where she gained skills while living in a group home; there she learned to cook, clean, and share responsibilities, all of which helped her prepare for living independently. Carla later moved into Agassiz Apartments with roommates, and she then lived in a Development Homes group home for a period, and eventually, with the help of her mother, found an apartment of her own. Over the years, she worked in several local businesses, including washing dishes at the Town House Hotel, working at an old pet store, and several food jobs, including Shakey's Pizza, where she prepared the dough and cinnamon rolls, and at the Royal Fork Buffet until its closure in 2008. She worked at both the Royal Fork and The Arc simultaneously for a period, which demonstrated her strong work ethic and commitment. Carla shared that The Arc Upper Valley was her favorite place to work because of the people, environment, and the work she was able to do.

Carla also reflected on the importance of inclusion in the workplace. She believes employers can make workplaces more welcoming by helping with physically demanding tasks, explaining instructions concisely, talking through expectations, and, most importantly, keeping an open mind and believing in each person's abilities. Her own experiences demonstrate how encouragement, patience, and high expectations can empower individuals to succeed.

Carla’s path to independence was supported by many people throughout her life. Growing up, educational opportunities for students with disabilities were limited in her hometown, and her mother made significant sacrifices to ensure she received the education she deserved. Later, Carla lived with foster families so she could continue attending school, where classes like home economics helped her to develop practical skills to help with everyday tasks. Those early years and the support she received throughout adulthood laid the foundation for the independence she enjoys today.

Retirement has brought a slower pace of life; she is embracing this new chapter wholeheartedly. She visits the LISTEN center five days a week and enjoys her time with her sister. In her free time, she enjoys making bracelets with thread as well as playing games and watching television. Looking back on her career, Carla says she mostly remembers how happy she was. Rather than recalling frustrations, she thinks about the friendships she made, the people she worked alongside, and the many positive memories she created over the years. She credits the support she has received throughout her life with helping her maintain that happiness while also acknowledging that she has always tried to approach life with a positive attitude.

Carla's story is a powerful reminder of the value of meaningful employment, strong community supports, and inclusive workplaces. Her determination, kindness, and unwavering positivity have left a lasting impact on The Arc Upper Valley, and we are grateful for the 37 years she shared with our organization. We wish Carla nothing but happiness as she enjoys this well-earned retirement and thank her for the legacy she leaves behind.