MARQUETTE – Donating money to a cause is easier for some people than others, depending on the ability to pay and other factors.

They haven’t stopped Marc Momberg, 50, from giving money to a place he works: Lakestate Industries.

Momberg, who lives at the assisted living facility, Sundara West Nphc, keeps busy by working for Prince of Peace Church in Harvey and the Upper Peninsula Health Plan in Marquette where he vacuums and takes out the trash.

“Whatever needs doing,” Momberg said.

For Lakestate, he also performs janitorial work.

According to its website at lakestateindustries.org, the organization, located along M-28 in Harvey, is a private, nonprofit agency that serves people in the community with intellectual disabilities.

Its focus is on giving persons with disabilities the opportunity to experience the rewards of working for “real pay” while removing barriers to employment and promoting community inclusion.

Lakestate Industries provides vocational career exploration, job development, job services and work training to adult and student populations.

Tami Hector, program coordinator at Lakestate, said Momberg also mows the lawns and even goes out with Shelby Bischoff, Lakestate business development and community manager, on presentations.

“He’s also considered our champion,” Hector said.

That’s fine by Momberg.

“It’s a great place to work,” he said.

Momberg also collects cans around town to earn money.

“I know a lot of people who are out of work right now, and they’re just looking for a job, but you know what? Jobs are not easy to come by,” Momberg said.

However, his mother passed away this April, with her leaving savings accounts in banks in Houghton and Hancock.

Momberg decided to donate $500 to Lakestate since “they could use the money” to perform more good works in the community and to show his appreciation.

“We are very (appreciative) of his donation and all of the support of the Marquette community that they’ve given us,” Hector said.

Christie Bleck can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 250.