A commitment to the greater community and volunteering at Cedar Lake. Dakkota’s manufacturing and sequencing plant in Louisville not only serves as a vital supplier for the Ford Kentucky truck plant but also plays a significant role in uplifting the local community. Embodying a culture deeply rooted in community engagement, Dakkota empowers its employees to volunteer for causes close to their hearts, such as Cedar Lake.
Since 2022, members of the Dakkota Vision Team have forged a meaningful connection with the residents of Cedar Lake’s Washburn residence, a haven for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities seeking independent living. Over the past few years, Dakkota employees have taken the lead in organizing arts and crafts projects and enhancing the landscaping surrounding the residence. Most recently, several Dakkota team members enthusiastically collaborated with Washburn residents on an enjoyable spring painting project.
“We strive to support organizations with which we share a personal connection,” affirms HR Leader Trey Bolton. And indeed, such connections run deep within Dakkota. Jessica Young, a dedicated Dakkota employee since 2018, formerly served at Cedar Lake Lodge as a behavior technician and as a master instructor for professional crisis management training across the organization.
Jessica shares, “Every moment spent at Cedar Lake fills me with immense joy. It’s a sanctuary of unconditional love, where each individual wholeheartedly embraces you. Visiting Cedar Lake is an uplifting experience; it’s impossible to leave without a smile.”
Upon discovering Dakkota’s commitment to local initiatives, Jessica made it her mission to facilitate volunteering at Cedar Lake. Both Trey and Jessica envision this partnership extending far into the future, eagerly anticipating participation in the Cedar Lake gala—an event Dakkota has proudly attended for the past two years.
As Dakkota continues its trajectory of growth and service to the automotive industry, it remains steadfast in nurturing a culture characterized by compassion, care, and respect for others, both within its current workforce and among prospective employees. With open positions available at their Louisville location, Dakkota extends an invitation to individuals eager to contribute to their mission. Yet, no matter how large Dakkota grows, the company remains dedicated to preserving a small community atmosphere that continues to make a tangible difference in the lives of those it touches.
You too can make a difference to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Learn how your organization can also volunteer at Cedar Lake.