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After 20 years of working for Domino's through Arc of Greensboro's Supported Employment program, Denny Ingold, 65, said it was time to "give it on up."

Ingold was among the first participants in Arc of Greensboro's Supported Employment program, which helps adults with developmental disabilities secure gainful employment.

His friends and family, smiling from ear to ear, celebrated his retirement Nov. 4 with co-workers and staff of Arc of Greensboro.

Ingold doesn't officially retire until December, but he said he is looking forward to relaxing.

Linda Kirkman, Ingold's sister said her brother will likely spend his free time doing the things he loves.

"We live out in the country, so I'm sure that once it warms up again, Denny will enjoy spending time working in the garden," she said. "He also likes getting the mail and feeding the dogs."

Lance Bullock worked with Ingold for five years and described his soon-to-be-former co-worker as "a joy to be around."

"I just love Denny; he is truly a special person," Bullock said after presenting him with a watch as a retirement gift on behalf of Domino's.

Ingold said his duties included helping in the kitchen and folding boxes at Domino's three days a week.

Vickki Blocker, Denny's long- term-support and employment specialist asked, "What did you always like to do whenever you would get hot?"

"I'd go in the freezer," Ingold responded with a smile.

Blocker said it was a joy to have Ingold in the Supported Employment program.

"He works so hard, and whenever there was a problem, he worked them out," she said.

"Denny's supported employment tells the entire story," said Ruth Edwards, director of supported employment for The Arc of Greensboro. "He has gone through the job-search process, training, long-term support and finally his own retirement. That's what it's all about."

The Arc of Greensboro started in 1953 as a grass-roots movement and was incorporated as a nonprofit in 1961.

For information on The Arc, visit www.arcg.org, or call 373-1076.

Contact Adria Hairston at 883-4422, Ext. 244 or adria.hairston@news-record.com