E12: How to Tap Into The Labor Pool of Persons with Disabilities

Released in 2025 to Dorcas House and feeling abandoned, I was pulled back from the edge by a timely call from Dee, my NRMR WDB navigator, who provided not only encouragement but essentials like clothes, a phone, and a computer, alongside access to foundational training for life and work skills. Now, at 51, with renewed clarity and determination, I am committed to building a future in construction and giving back to the community that believed in my second chance—my story is not ending but just beginning.

I became a CNA in high school and started working in the field in I continued my education to earn my Phlebotomy and CCMA certifications. Throughout my training, I faced major struggles—raising my daughter alone, working PRN jobs, and commuting without reliable transportation—but I never gave up. Nursing has always been my calling, and with God’s guidance and the incredible support of the NRMR Workforce Development Board, especially Marjorie, I’ve stayed the course.

In 2023, Erin enrolled in the Associate Degree in Nursing program at New River Community College and joined the HRSA Grant program through the New River/Mount Rogers Workforce Development Board. Balancing full-time studies with part-time hospital work, she faced added stress when her husband was injured and unable to work. With the HRSA grant covering essentials like testing fees and supplies, Erin was able to stay focused and graduate on May 10, 2025. Now employed as an RN at Baptist Hospital in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, earning $34.90 an hour, she is proud to support patients through difficult times and plans to continue her education to become a Physician Assistant.

Through WCC’s Workforce Development office, I was connected to the New River/Mount Rogers Workforce Development Board, where Crystal, an outstanding navigator, helped me access supportive services. Learning to drive a big rig was challenging, but the instructors were incredibly supportive, and the hands-on training opened up new career paths I hadn’t considered. What kept me motivated was knowing that gaining multiple skilled trades would lead to long-term stability.

Thank you so much for giving me the chance to share my story. I truly mean it when Isay your program changed my life. The… Read more: Sadora