Last week’s unveiling at the Prospector Theater was a moment of triumph and transformation. Under the spotlight was a magnificent mosaic, a golden rainbow spectrum crafted entirely from buttons, each piece a glimmer of our collective journey. The artwork, spelling out “Sparkle On!” in vivid hues, is more than a visual delight. It’s a symbol of a journey from darkness to light, especially poignant given the history of Button Sorting.

The creation of this mosaic is deeply interwoven with irony and contrast. Button sorting, once a monotonous, undervalued task in sheltered workshops, often became a symbol of the limited opportunities provided to adults with disabilities. These workshops, rather than empowering individuals, often relegated them to repetitive, unfulfilling tasks—sorting buttons endlessly with little recognition or reward. This dark chapter in employment history for people with disabilities stands in stark contrast to the vibrant and meaningful experience crafted by the Prospector.

When the pandemic unbuttoned our familiar world, turning off the sparkle of the Prospector Theater, we faced a daunting challenge. How could we continue to engage and employ our Prospects in a meaningful way, especially during a time of isolation and uncertainty? The answer lay in reimagining a task that once represented monotony and limitation.

Our journey began with a collection of 100 pounds of vintage buttons, each with its own untold story, reminiscent of times and places long gone. These buttons were distributed weekly to our Prospects, along with zip lock bags and muffin sorting trays. The Zoom sessions for sorting these buttons became lifelines—connecting, engaging, and uplifting everyone involved. Laughter, camaraderie, and comfort filled these virtual gatherings, turning a once solitary task into a collective, sparkling endeavor.

In this process, we redefined the very essence of button sorting. Far from the bleak, repetitive task it once was, it became a source of creativity, connection, and skill-development. Prospects honed their digital skills, professional communication, and fine motor abilities, all while contributing to a larger, meaningful project. Each button placed in the mosaic was a testament to the resilience, creativity, and spirit of our community.

Corduroy the Bear’s story, with its theme of transformation and acceptance, mirrored our own. Just as a simple button brought wholeness and happiness to Corduroy, each button in our mosaic brought together a story of change, hope, and inclusion. We turned what was once a symbol of limitation into a beacon of possibility and pride.

The button mosaic at the Prospector Theater is not just artwork; it’s a narrative tapestry, each button a thread in our larger story of overcoming adversity. It stands as a testament to our ability to turn even the most mundane tasks into sources of joy, purpose, and community connection. As the colorful “Sparkle On!” greets everyone who enters the theater, it serves as a reminder of our journey from the shadowed past of button sorting to a future filled with color, creativity, and meaningful employment.