Across Rhode Island, people with disabilities are finding jobs, starting businesses, learning new skills and making a difference in their communities.
These stories show the many ways people build successful careers. They also highlight how supportive employers, individualized services and community connections can help people reach their goals and thrive at work.
Through his work in technology, youth leadership and podcasting at RIPIN and on his own, Nathan Markley helps amplify the voices of people with disabilities while showing how employment can foster confidence, independence and lasting community connections.
Terry Lee Robinson’s experience as a food packer at Hope & Main in Warren demonstrates how individualized supports, workplace inclusion, and access to creative and community activities can help people with disabilities thrive.
Through Project SEARCH, workplace support and work incentives benefits counseling, Edward Torres found meaningful employment and social connection as a barback at Bally’s Twin River, helping build confidence and community while maintaining his benefits.
With support from employment services, benefits counseling and self-employment training, Michaela Davin transformed her interests in storytelling and crafts into meaningful paid work with children. Her career path demonstrates the power of aligning personal talents with local workforce needs.
Self-employment has given Bryan Baron the opportunity to pursue meaningful work on his own terms, making creative decisions, setting goals and building a business that reflects his vision and passions.
An immersive Work Incentive Benefits Counseling internship program at the Sherlock Center helped create a pathway for Brooke Coelho to turn her lived experience into a meaningful career to support others with disabilities in navigating working and benefits.
