Success Stories

Through the links below, meet DRS consumers who have experienced work-related successes and have shared their stories.

Goodwill Honored with Employer Award for Outstanding Partnership with DRS

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) is proud to recognize Goodwill Industries of KYOWVA Area, Inc in Huntington, as an Employer Award recipient for their ongoing commitment to providing employment opportunities and support for individuals with disabilities. Under the leadership of Alissa, CEO of Goodwill, the organization has demonstrated a strong dedication to…

Café Joseph of Parkersburg Recognized as Runner-Up Employer Award Honoree for Inclusive Hiring and Dedication to Employee Growth

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) is proud to honor Café Joseph of Parkersburg, WV as an Employer Award recipient for their outstanding efforts in creating a supportive and inclusive workplace for individuals with disabilities. Café Joseph has partnered with DRS and SW Resources to provide on-site assessments, training, and job coaching, ensuring…

Weimer Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Keyser Named Runner-Up Employer Award Honoree for Inclusive Practices and Employee Success

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) is proud to recognize Weimer Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Keyser as an Employer Award recipient for their dedication to creating an inclusive workplace and supporting individuals with disabilities in achieving long-term employment success. The organization has demonstrated a strong commitment to workforce inclusion by offering mentorship,…

Moorefield Shop ’n Save Recognized as Runner-Up Employer Award Honoree for Partnership and Commitment to Inclusive Employment

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) is proud to recognize Moorefield Shop ’n Save as a Runner-Up Employer Award recipient for their outstanding collaboration and dedication to creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Moorefield Shop ’n Save partnered with Rise Now, LLC to support the successful onboarding of a DRS consumer. The…

Moorefield Food Lion Recognized as Employer Award Winner for Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, and Workforce Excellence

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) is proud to honor Moorefield Food Lion as an Employer Award recipient for their long-standing dedication to diversity, inclusivity, and employee success.Known for nourishing communities in need and creating workplaces where associates can thrive, Food Lion values the skills, talents, and contributions of all employees as critical…

Celebrating Success: Cabell County Public Library’s Commitment to Inclusive Work Experiences

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (WVDRS) is proud to honor the Cabell County Public Library with an Employer Award for their outstanding partnership in fostering inclusive employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The Cabell County Public Library has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to supporting the community by actively collaborating with WVDRS. Their partnership…

Shane Bell

QRT Coordinator, Community Connections Shane Bell’s career in emergency medical services was cut short due to debilitating back problems. He has degenerative disc disease and was born with deformity in one ankle, which led to chronic pain and impaired mobility. His health struggles also led to a dependence on drugs and some trouble with the…

Nathan Stiffler

Youth Pastor, Memorial Heights Baptist Church Nathan Stiffler serves as the youth pastor at Memorial Heights Baptist Church in Cumberland, Md., where he is tasked with leading, planning, and coordinating ministries for the church’s teenagers. “I originally wanted to be a mechanic,” Stiffler confided. “My youth pastor was very influential in my life and I…

John Prentice

Psychologist, Valley Health Systems A graduate of West Virginia Wesleyan and Marshall University, John Prentice began working in clinical psychology at Valley Health Systems in Huntington in 2023. Prentice has dyslexia, dysgraphia and dyscalculia–a collection of learning disabilities that affect reading, writing and math skills by interfering with the mental processes required for those tasks.…

Cole Allen

Certified Medical Assistant, St. Marys Medical Center Cole Allen came to the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services upon a recommendation from someone at his church who saw that he was struggling in school. Allen has epilepsy, and his daily challenges with managing his condition had begun to have a negative impact on his grades.…

Andrew Cole Zulauf

Vending Machine Business Owner/Operator As the owner and operator of a vending machine business serving Putnam and Kanawha counties, Andrew Cole Zulauf spends his days stocking and refilling his machines with tasty snacks and drinks. He is a hard worker who is passionate about his craft and strives to provide top-notch service to his customers.…

Tyler Ewaskey

Transportation Worker, WV Division of Highways Tyler Ewaskey spends his days helping to improve West Virginia’s roads. He credits the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services with helping him improve at school and succeed at his job with the West Virginia Division of Highways. “He loves his job. He’s energetic about it. He shows up…

Asplundh Recognized with Employer Award for Outstanding Commitment to Opportunity and Workforce Inclusion

Asplundh Recognized with Employer Award for Outstanding Commitment to Opportunity and Workforce Inclusion Pictured Left to Right: Quincy Thomas, Asplundh and Randall Coleman, Employment Specialist District IV &V WVDRS The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) is proud to honor Asplundh as an Employer Award recipient for their dedication to providing meaningful employment opportunities…

Riesbeck’s Food Market of Elm Grove Recognized as Distinguished Employer

Pictured left to right: Katlyn Graski and Julie Young, Rehabilitation Counselors in the DRS Wheeling Office, Jentry Shultz, Manager of Riesbeck’s of Elm Grove, and Jennifer Surface, DRS Employment Specialist. The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) has recognized Riesbeck’s Food Market of Elm Grove as a Distinguished Employer. DRS presented the award to store manager Jentry Shultz in…

Celebrating Mon Health’s Partnership with the WV Division of Rehabilitation Services

Left to Right Amanda Jeffreys – Recruitment Specialist, Mon Health, Guy Stewart- Talent Acquisition Recruiting Specialist, Mon Health, Jamie Childers- Employment Specialist District II WVDRSMon Health Medical Center has long been recognized as a leader in healthcare excellence, but its commitment extends far beyond patient care. Through a strong partnership with the West Virginia Division…

Heart+Hand Outreach Ministries Recognized with Employer Award for 60 Years of Service and Inclusive Employment

Pictured Left to Right are Jenny Keener, Volunteer Media Communications Outreach Coordinator, Mike Lamb, Employment Specialist, District 1, Scott Jarrett, Executive Director and Katrina Stuart, Branch office Manager, Charleston. The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) is proud to honor Heart+Hand Outreach Ministries as an Employer Award recipient for their outstanding dedication to both…

Aviation Industry Partnership Expands Job Opportunities for West Virginians with Disabilities

Left to Right: Kacey Osborne- Administrative Assistant, Kayleigh Paulhamus- Aviation Recruiter, Jamie Childers- Employment Specialist, Ron Eagle- President, Nicki Bean- Administrative Manager, Mikayla Gall- Aviation Recruiter A growing partnership between HQ Aero Management and the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) is creating new career pathways in the aviation industry for individuals with disabilities.…

DRS recognizes Mane Street Studio in Keyser as an Exemplary Employer

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) recognized Mane Street Studio in Keyser as an exemplary employer and partner as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October 2024. DRS recognized Mane Street Studio for demonstrating excellence in its diverse hiring practices by creating an inclusive workplace and for its positive contributions within…

DRS recognizes Keyser Auto Service Center in Keyser as an Exemplary Employer

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) recognized Keyser Auto Service Center in Keyser as an exemplary employer and partner as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October 2024. DRS recognized Keyser Auto Service Center for demonstrating excellence in its diverse hiring practices by creating an inclusive workplace and for its positive…

DRS recognizes Goodwill Industries of KYOWVA Area, Inc. in Huntington as a Diversity Trailblazer

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) recognized Goodwill Industries of KYOWVA Area, Inc.  in Huntington as a diversity trailblazer employer and partner as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October 2024. DRS recognized Goodwill Industries for demonstrating ongoing leadership in promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in its hiring practices and workplace…

DRS recognizes Domino’s Pizza in Huntington as an Exemplary Employer

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) recognized Domino’s Pizza in Huntington as an exemplary employer and partner as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October 2024. DRS recognized Domino’s Pizza for demonstrating excellence in its diverse hiring practices by creating an inclusive workplace and for its positive contributions within our communities.…

DRS recognizes Yukon Medical Clinic in Yukon as an Exemplary Employer

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) recognized Yukon Medical Clinic in Yukon as an exemplary employer and partner as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October 2024. DRS recognized Yukon Medical Clinic for demonstrating excellence in its diverse hiring practices by creating an inclusive workplace and for its positive contributions within…

DRS recognizes Asplundh in Beckley as a Diversity Trailblazer

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) recognized Asplundh in Beckley as a diversity trailblazer employer and partner as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October 2024. DRS recognized Asplundh for demonstrating ongoing leadership in promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in its hiring practices and workplace and for its constant positive contributions…

DRS recognizes WVVA in Bluefield as an Exemplary Employer

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) recognized WVVA in Bluefield as an exemplary employer and partner as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October 2024. DRS recognized WVVA for demonstrating excellence in its diverse hiring practices by creating an inclusive workplace and for its positive contributions within our communities. WVVA partnered…

DRS recognizes Daniel Vineyards in Crab Orchard as an Exemplary Employer

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) recognized Daniel Vineyards in Crab Orchard as an exemplary employer and partner as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October 2024. DRS recognized Daniel Vineyards for demonstrating excellence in its diverse hiring practices by creating an inclusive workplace and for its positive contributions within our…

DRS recognizes Piggly Wiggly in Parkersburg as an Exemplary Employer

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) recognized Piggly Wiggly in Parkersburg as an exemplary employer and partner as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October 2024. DRS recognized Piggly Wiggly for demonstrating excellence in its diverse hiring practices by creating an inclusive workplace and for its positive contributions within our communities.…

DRS recognizes West Virginia University Medicine in Morgantown as a Diversity Trailblazer

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) recognized WVU Medicine in Morgantown as a diversity trailblazer employer and partner as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October 2024. DRS recognized WVU Medicine for demonstrating ongoing leadership in promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in its hiring practices and workplace and for its constant…

DRS recognizes WDTV 5 News in Bridgeport as an Exemplary Employer

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) recognized WDTV 5 News in Bridgeport as an exemplary employer and partner as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October 2024. DRS recognized WDTV 5 News for demonstrating excellence in its diverse hiring practices by creating an inclusive workplace and for its positive contributions within…

DRS recognizes Mountain State Recovery Center in Charleston as an Exemplary Employer

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) recognized Mountain State Recovery Center in Charleston as an exemplary employer and partner as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October 2024. DRS recognized Mountain State Recovery Center for demonstrating excellence in its diverse hiring practices by creating an inclusive workplace and for its positive…

DRS recognizes The Peddler in Huntington as an Exemplary Employer

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) recognized The Peddler in Huntington as an exemplary employer and partner as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October 2023. DRS recognized The Peddler for demonstrating excellence in its diverse hiring practices by creating an inclusive workplace and…

DRS recognizes Russell Nesbitt Services, Inc. in Wheeling as an Exemplary Employer

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) recognized Russell Nesbitt Services, Inc. in Wheeling as an exemplary employer and partner as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October 2023. DRS recognized Russell Nesbitt Services, Inc. for demonstrating excellence in its diverse hiring practices by creating…

DRS recognizes Precision Services, Inc. in Gassaway as an Exemplary Employer

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) recognized Precision Services, Inc. in Gassaway as an exemplary employer and partner as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October 2023. DRS recognized Precision Services, Inc. for demonstrating excellence in its diverse hiring practices by creating an inclusive…

DRS recognizes Mineral County Commission in Keyser as an Exemplary Employer

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) recognized Mineral County Commission in Keyser as an exemplary employer and partner as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October 2023. DRS recognized Mineral County Commission for demonstrating excellence in its diverse hiring practices by creating an inclusive…

DRS recognizes McDowell County Commission in Welch as an Exemplary Employer

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) recognized McDowell County Commission in Welch as an exemplary employer and partner as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October 2023. DRS recognized McDowell County Commission for demonstrating excellence in its diverse hiring practices by creating an inclusive…

DRS recognizes Hampton Inn in Princeton as an Exemplary Employer

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) recognized Hampton Inn in Princeton as an exemplary employer and partner as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October 2023. DRS recognized Hampton Inn for demonstrating excellence in its diverse hiring practices by creating an inclusive workplace and…

DRS recognizes Blenko Glass in Milton as an Exemplary Employer

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) recognized Blenko Glass in Milton as an exemplary employer and partner as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October 2023. DRS recognized Blenko Glass for demonstrating excellence in its diverse hiring practices by creating an inclusive workplace and…

Tyler Heffner: Achieving Long-Term Goals with Help from DRS

Tyler Heffner: Achieving Long-Term Goals with Help from DRS Tyler Heffner worked very hard to get where he is and continues to be diligent in his quest to meet his long-term goals. Tyler attended Lewis County High School, where he graduated in 2015. He was diagnosed with autism in middle school, where he worked hard…

Keonea Cooper: Increasing Skills and Reaching Career Goals with DRS

Keonea Cooper: Increasing Skills and Reaching Career Goals with DRS With a smile, Keonea Cooper helps customers and performs her other job tasks at a Goodwill store in Huntington. The Goodwill store is part of Goodwill Industries of KYOWVA, a multi-service agency that provides training and employment-related services to people with disabilities, according to Community…

John McDowell: Perseverance Through Adversity

John McDowell: Perseverance Through Adversity When faced with several challenges, some people choose to quit. But John McDowell used his strength to persevere through adversity. John has several disabilities, including some mobility issues, which make walking difficult, especially on uneven surfaces. He also has a speech disorder, which makes communicating with and being understood by…

Andrew Rager: How Determination and DRS Helped this Ability Works Winner Thrive

Andrew Rager: How Determination and DRS Helped this Ability Works Winner Thrive Andrew Rager’s determination to do more and a thriving partnership helped him foster job skills and self-confidence to meet his employment goal. Anxiety and an intellectual disability have made things difficult for Andrew throughout his lifetime. After graduating from Brooke County High School…

Amber Sweet: Achieving Career Success with DRS

Amber Sweet: Achieving Career Success with DRS Amber Sweet’s goal was to help people. As a crisis counselor for First Choice Services in Charleston, Amber achieves that goal daily.  According to Terrance Hamm, Director of First Choice Services’ 988 program, this non-profit organization operates helpline services throughout West Virginia and other states. The 988 program…

Jayla Williams: How Fashion Brings This Retailer Fulfillment

While in high school, Jayla was referred to the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) for assistance with her transition from school to work. Jayla has Down syndrome, a genetic disorder that causes developmental delays. She was extremely shy and insecure, and she needed help with acquiring independent living and life skills and with…

Michael Moore: IT Guru Advances Career with Help from DRS

Michael Moore: IT Guru Advances Career with Help from DRS This Ability Works Award Winner turned a love for computers into a successful career in technology and encourages others to seek out DRS resources to help them do the same When technology troubles strike, Michael Moore is there to help. He works as an Information…

Ismael Calzada: How Skills Training and Job Coaching Led to Opportunity

Ismael Calzada: How Skills Training and Job Coaching Led to Opportunity This Ability Works Award Winner Used the Skills He Learned from DRS and Goodwill to Jumpstart His Career Ismael Calzada works as a dishwasher at Perkins Restaurant in Moundsville. This is his first real job, and he is happy to have the opportunity and…

Ashley HigginBotham: Achieving Career Goals With DRS

Ashley Higginbotham: Achieving Career Goals with DRS This Ability Works Award Winner is pursuing her dream career with help from DRS Since middle school, Ashley Higginbotham’s dream has been working with and caring for children. Now, she is a care teacher at Sacred Heart Early Learning Center in Charleston. Ashley connected with the West Virginia…

James Sparks: How this Teacher and Coach Prepared for the Future

James Sparks: How this Teacher and Coach Prepared for the Future This Ability Works Award Winner achieved his dream of becoming a teacher with help from DRS James Sparks teaches social studies at River View High School in McDowell County, his alma mater, where he graduated in 2016. While playing football in high school, James…