Promoting Opportunity & The Environment
Building upon its existing e-waste services for QC Office customers, Quality Connections is proud to announce the launch of its “Empowering Through E-Waste” program.
This initiative, made possible by a generous grant from the City of Flagstaff Neighborhood Sustainability Grant Program, will significantly broaden QC’s impact on local e-waste reduction while creating enhanced employment and training opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
QC will establish easy-to-access drop-off points for recycling toner cartridges and inkjets, helping to reduce waste in local landfills while promoting sustainable practices.
Electronic waste can also be dropped off at our offices for repair, selling, or salvaging with Westech Recyclers, a certified locally owned Green Business that leads the way in environmental sustainability across the state.
This project will also provide training and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and barriers to employment who will assist with collecting, sorting, breaking down electronic devices, and preparing materials for recycling or reuse.
With e-waste contributing significantly to environmental pollution, our initiative addresses a critical need in Flagstaff by offering a responsible disposal option that benefits our entire community and promotes environmental sustainability while supporting inclusive employment opportunities.
The project will also raise awareness about the growing issue of e-waste and promote sustainable recycling practices by further developing and strengthening partnerships with local schools, businesses, and sustainability experts to maximize the program’s reach and impact.
“We are excited to build upon our existing e-waste services and extend these vital resources to the entire Flagstaff community,” said David Smith, QC Office Director. “This grant allows us to not only reduce environmental impact but also create meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities to thrive.”
From Client to QC Office Call Center Manager
Tonnya Jensen, QC Office Customer Relations Manager, shows Kylee Morain (right) how to run some key reports for the office supply company, part of Quality Connections.
Kylee Morain’s journey with Quality Connections (QC) is one of resilience and growth.
After five years of being a Quality Assurance Representative with QC Office – our social enterprise office supplies business – Kylee was recently promoted to Call Center Manager, a reflection of both her knowledge and outstanding customer skills.
“Kylee is fantastic,” said David Smith, QC Office Director. “She was promoted because of her infectiously positive attitude, ability, and willingness to help other employees, as well as her expertise in the office supply industry that she has built over the last five years.”
He added that her contribution to Quality Connections sustained growth cannot be overstated.
Kylee, who is originally from Washington State, was born with Turner Syndrome, a condition associated with developmental delays. As a toddler, she also suffered brain damage due to E. coli blood poisoning. Both events impacted Kylee in terms of learning, emotional regulation, and impulse control. And while doctors prepared her family for a life of significant challenges, Kylee continually defied their expectations.
“I’ve always done a good job at that,” she said.
Kylee moved to Arizona to attend a boarding school in Mayer. She later followed a friend to Northern Arizona University (NAU), where she spent four years exploring different academic interests, including psychology, business, and finally, Spanish. Although family circumstances prevented her from graduating, she plans to return and earn her degree.
After leaving NAU, Kylee said she struggled with self-doubt. A therapist connected her with the Department of Economic Security, which ultimately placed her with Quality Connections. Programs here helped her build her confidence and work experience and she was placed with a dog grooming business, perfect for her love of animals. After two and a half years, she found herself searching for a new opportunity.
Knowing the impact QC had on her life, Kylee returned to conduct a new job search, but she had also mentioned she’d love to work at QC in any capacity, including janitorial work. Instead, QC recognized her potential and offered her a role in the QC Office.
“She obviously had great customer service skills,” said Doug Arnett, QC’s Chief Operating Officer. “She understands the mechanics of the system, but mostly, it’s her ability to make customers feel supported that sets her apart.”
One of the most meaningful aspects of working at QC Office has been the sense of belonging Kylee has found. Growing up, she often felt different and misunderstood, but at QC, she has discovered an environment where both individuals with disabilities and those without come together as a supportive community.
“I love the people,” she says. “To be in an environment where people understand and support each other – it’s really special.”
Kylee shares her home with two beloved dogs – a spirited Chihuahua named Moto, who rules the house, and a gentle Pit Bull, Molly Brown, who is her “best girl.” Taking care of her pets keeps her active and helps her step outside her comfort zone, she says.
Reflecting on how far she’s come, Kylee credits QC with encouraging her to push beyond her limits.
Now, as Call Center Manager, Kylee is stepping into a leadership role where she can give back to the organization that has given her so much.
Kylee with Molly Brown & Moto.
She knows that co-founder Armando Bernasconi and David Smith, along with the entire QC team, have always supported her, and she’s ready to continue making a difference for others who, like her, have found hope and opportunity at QC.
“I’m just very grateful to be in the position that I am,” she says.
Congratulations to Kylee Morain! I have had the pleasure of working with her many times for special orders or when an item is backordered or out of stock. She has always been pleasant, extremely helpful and quick to respond! Glad to see her being rewarded and recognized!