The Alexia Fall Workshop

Thursday, Oct. 22-Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026

Jessica Amidon takes on the dirty work to sustain Caz Cans and support her community. Since 2023, she has joined fellow redemption center operators in Albany to advocate for a fair handling fee through the proposed Bigger and Better Bottle Bill. Photo by Angela Ryan.

Jessica Amidon takes on the dirty work to sustain Caz Cans and support her community. Since 2023, she has joined fellow redemption center operators in Albany to advocate for a fair handling fee through the proposed Bigger and Better Bottle Bill. Photo by Angela Ryan.

The Rhythms of Redemption

By Angela Ryan

Published

Eighteen years ago, burnt out from a career in sales and searching for her place, Jessica Amidon founded Caz Cans and built a place of her own. Today it’s a community redemption center where neighbors can return eligible beverage containers and donate their refunds to local charities, supporting more than 60 local nonprofits every year.

Story Credits

Angela
Ryan

    Coached by

    Mike
    Roy

      Carolyn
      Van Houten