Partnership for People with Disabilities

What inspired you to work in the disability field, and what keeps you motivated?

One of my core values is making a difference; it is the heart of who I am and what keeps me motivated. When I graduated college with a degree in psychology, I wasn’t sure where I wanted to go; I just knew I wanted to help people. That summer, my aunt asked me to volunteer at a camp with kids who had cancer. Their resilience, strength, and ability to find joy in the toughest times were life-changing for me. After that summer, I knew I wanted to work with individuals who bring diverse strengths and perspectives to the world. I took a job at a group home working with adults with disabilities, which taught me so much. Their individuality, creativity, and determination inspired me to deepen my understanding of how it is important to create spaces inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive. That experience helped me take the next step in my career, and I went back to college to become a school counselor. 

 

Can you share a memorable moment in your career that had a significant impact on you or the individuals you serve?

In one of the school divisions I worked in, I was in charge of the mentoring programs for at-promise youth across all the schools. There were countless memorable moments in this role, but one that will always stay with me is when we took a group of students to a shelter to feed people experiencing homelessness. It was the first time the shelter had allowed a group of adolescents to volunteer, and many of my colleagues were hesitant about whether it would go smoothly. But my staff and I believed in these students; we knew they had the potential to rise to the occasion. As we expected, they were incredible. The shelter staff was so impressed that they invited us back two more times. It was even more meaningful when a student’s mother called me afterward. She told me it was the first time all year that her son was excited to get out of bed to go to school. I share this moment because moments like that show the power of believing in others and creating opportunities for them to shine.

 

What is one misconception about your role or the disability field that you would like to clarify?

As systems coaches, our role isn’t to direct schools but to support, guide, and empower them in achieving their goals.

 

How do you approach creating inclusive environments or supporting accessibility in your work?

I try to make it a priority to seek out different perspectives and understand the needs of the people I work with. It is important to me to foster spaces where people feel valued and included. This is an on-going area of growth for me.

 

What skills or qualities do you feel are most important in serving the disability community?

Listening, flexibility, compassion, and collaboration.

 

What is a recent project or initiative you are proud of, and how did it benefit those you work with?

I have the privilege of working with an incredible and passionate team at the Virginia Tiered Systems of Supports (VTSS) on a literature review for supporting students with internalizing behaviors. Our work has led to exciting opportunities to share our findings - first at our mental health conference in November, and now nationally at the APBS conference.

 

How do you stay informed and continue learning about best practices in the disability field?

As the Education Content Specialist, I work with some amazing staff at PPD who share their expertise and insights. I am excited for this collaboration and to continuously learn from them on new strategies for supporting the disability community effectively. 

 

What is one thing you wish more people understood about individuals with disabilities?

Everyone brings value and has something meaningful to contribute. By focusing on people’s abilities and strengths rather than perceived limitations, we can foster inclusion and empowerment.

 

How has working in the disability field changed your perspective or influenced your personal growth?

I would say that I am still growing and learning everyday in this field. I have learned to be more mindful around creating spaces where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. Everyone has a story, and taking the time to really listen to others experiences.

 

What advice would you give to someone starting a career in the disability field?

Always stay curious.