Valley City Corporate Social Responsibility: Practice to Policy

Valley City Electronic Recycling has been a leader in electronic recycling, asset management, and data security for more than 15 years, providing safe, secure, and sustainable recycling solutions for electronic, medical, and industrial equipment across the Midwest. The company’s commitment to high standards of environmental performance, social responsibility, accountability, and transparency has earned it B Corp certification.

Beyond its core recycling operations, Valley City has emerged as a model for inclusive hiring practices in West Michigan. By embedding equity and opportunity into its workplace culture, the company demonstrates how sustainability can extend beyond environmental impact to include meaningful social outcomes.

“We believe it is part of our mission to be a good steward of our environment and, in turn, a responsible corporate citizen and community member,” says Jason Kehr, president of Valley City Electronic Recycling.

Inclusive Hiring as a Core Business Practice

Valley City’s alternative hiring program began seven years ago when a returning citizen approached the company seeking employment. Following that hire, the company partnered with organizations such as Goodwill and Hope Network to expand opportunities for individuals facing barriers to employment, including those with criminal records. Today, the majority of Valley City’s recycling-sector employees are hired through these programs.

Candidates are still required to meet job qualifications, but the company’s experience has challenged common assumptions about workforce availability. Since launching the program, the company has hired approximately 50 returning citizens.

The benefits of the program include access to a broader talent pool and the integration of diverse perspectives that strengthen company culture. Challenges remain, including transportation barriers and scheduling conflicts such as court appearances. As a smaller organization, Valley City is able to work closely with employees, offering flexibility, retention-focused support, and resources such as bus passes. The company is also exploring partnerships with local banks to provide small lines of credit for eligible employees in need.

Inclusive hiring at Valley City is not driven by formal mandates but by company values: accountability, commitment, community, equality, and integrity. The company has voluntarily adopted “Ban the Box,” removing conviction history questions from job applications, and emphasizes growth, trust, and long-term employee success.

Beyond its own operations, Valley City is committed to education and outreach. Through partnerships with Talent 2025, the company helps share best practices on fair chance hiring, including producing videos that highlight the experiences and successes of returning citizens in the workplace. According to Kehr, interest in inclusive hiring continues to grow as more companies recognize its value as a corporate social responsibility strategy.

Update – December 2025: Valley City Electronic Recycling merged with Schupan & Sons in April 2025 to form Schupan Electronics Recycling.