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Agency links disabled workers with jobs, education
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Published: October 26, 2009
When Mary Ann Gentry arrived in Statesville from the Philippines last May, she didn't have a job.
Gentry, 27, enlisted the help of Vocational Rehabilitations Services (VRS), a local agency whose mission is to promote employment and independence for people with disabilities.
Thanks to help from the agency, Gentry, who was born without a left arm, was able to get a job at a consignment shop.
Six months ago, the agency found her full-time employment at Tilley Harley-Davidson.
In her new position in accounts payable, Gentry said she is able to use her college degree.
"It's great," she said. "It's what I've been dreaming of."
Prior to finding work, Gentry and her husband, Ronald, were living off of his retirement income.
Now that they have two incomes, their financial situation has improved.
"It's nice to save some (money) for the future," Gentry said.
Gentry said she would recommend its services to anyone who qualifies.
"I'm thankful for them because without them, I'd probably be jobless at the moment," she said. "They are willing to train people and tell you what you really need to know."
VRS employs four counselors show average nearly 120 cases, said counselor Ashlee Robinette.
The agency's goal is to help people with disabilities to become employed by providing them with special services.
Some of those services include vocational guidance, job seeking skills training, counseling, job placement, medical services, tools and equipment, and rehabilitation engineering services.
"The goal is to get people with disabilities back to work or keep a job if they're working," Robinette said.
Some of the services available are at no cost, or are based on financial need.
Robinette said the key in finding clients employment is matching their skills and abilities while taking into consideration their disability.
"It feels great to know I've helped somebody achieve their goals and find employment," she said.
Becky Sisco, 23, is attending Catawba Valley College and majoring in advertising and graphic design because of VRS, which is paying for her schooling and expenses.
"It really helps a lot that they're doing this," she said.
Sisco, who has a genetic disorder where she has brittle bones and needs the use of a powerchair, is taking a full-time course load.
She's been with VRS for six years.
After graduating from CVC, her plan is to attend N.C. State University and work toward getting her bachelor's degree.
She is appreciative of the help VRS has given her over the years.
"I probably wouldn't be as far as I am without them," she said. "I really value their help."
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