New Technology Cuts Costs, Creates Opportunity, and Strengthens Mount Rogers’ Future
SourceAmerica Grant Provides Funding for New Project
New cutting and spreading machines at Mount Rogers Community Services are helping to save money and build a stronger future. Mount Rogers uses the machines to make fabric products for the U.S. military.
The equipment also supports the mission of Mount Rogers Employment Support Services (ESS). ESS helps people with disabilities find meaningful work and earn money.
On July 8, Mount Rogers held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its manufacturing plant in Wytheville. The team celebrated getting the new Lectra cutting and spreading machines. Staff from SourceAmerica attended the event. SourceAmerica provided a $400,000 grant. They also shared expertise to help make the project possible.
Manufacturing for U.S. Military Contracts
Mount Rogers uses the machines to make advanced combat shirts, helmet covers, and other items for the U.S. Army. Employees make these products at plants in Wytheville, Atkins, and Hillsville. The new equipment is already helping the organization work faster, reduce waste, and save money.
SourceAmerica is a national nonprofit that helps create jobs for people with significant disabilities. Dana Ferguson of SourceAmerica said the grant came from the organization’s Technology Automation Enhancement Program, which helps nonprofits improve their operations.
Ferguson said the program helps organizations like Mount Rogers grow, stay competitive, and create more jobs for people with disabilities. The new equipment helps Mount Rogers do more work in-house instead of sending it to outside companies.
A Vision of Former Director Frank Dowell
During the ribbon cutting, Mount Rogers also honored former Director Frank Dowell for his role in starting the project. Dowell passed away in 2024, but his vision, along with the leadership of Chief Manufacturing Officer Richie Pack, helped bring the project to life.
Pack praised the manufacturing team for making the project a success.
“This is one of the best teams I’ve ever been on,” he said. “They work so well together.”
Mount Rogers Community Services CEO Sandy Bryant thanked SourceAmerica for its support and partnership.
“Their support helps us build a stronger future, improve our financial stability, maintain high quality standards, and continue supporting our military through our work,” Bryant said. Most importantly, Bryant said that the new equipment helps give employees a sense of purpose and pride. She said meaningful work plays a key role in their health, happiness, and well-being.
About Mount Rogers Community Services — Mount Rogers is a trusted provider of community services mental health, behavioral health, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and substance use disorders in southwest Virginia. We also offer geriatric, counseling, early intervention, and other services in Galax and the counties of Bland, Carroll, Grayson, Smyth, and Wythe.
