100 Stories in 100 Days

At just 20 years old, John Benson’s life changed after a diving accident left him paralyzed. Despite the challenges, his passion for agriculture never faded. Determined to return to farming, John partnered with a local farmer to create an innovative solution: using a modified engine crane and Hoyer sling to transfer himself into farm equipment. This adaptation allowed him to contribute to harvest and tillage work, and just ten years after his accident, John was farming again.

As operating equipment became more difficult, John turned to Delaware DVR for support. In 2022, he received a truck-mounted lift from Life Essentials Lifts. This device now enables him to transfer from his truck into the cabs of various farm machines, greatly expanding his ability to work and support local agriculture. Beyond farming, John enjoys wheelchair rugby, skiing, woodworking, and maintaining community Little League fields. His determination continues to inspire all who know him.

Elizabeth (Lizzy) Harrison came to Delaware DVR seeking help finding a career pathway where she could thrive. Through a vocational assessment, Lizzy and her VR Counselor identified her passion—working with animals—and set a goal to pursue a career in that field. The Business Relations Specialist (BRS) reached out to local employers to find the right match for an On-the-Job Training (OJT) opportunity. After meeting with Mary, owner of A Comfy Pet Grooming Salon, the BRS developed a 9-month OJT for Lizzy to gain grooming and animal care experience. With 1:1 guidance from her trainer, Page, Lizzy quickly picked up new skills and mastered grooming equipment. Her dedication and enthusiasm stood out, and by the end of training, she transitioned into a full-time Groomer at A Comfy Pet with her own clients. When asked when she knew this was the right career, Lizzy said: “On the second day—I feel so happy going to work every day!”

In 2019, Stephen Thomas survived a car accident that left him gradually losing his eyesight. His doctor told him to accept retirement, but Stephen refused. “Somehow, some way, I was going to work again.” Searching for options, he discovered the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA) and its Business Enterprise Program (BEP), which equips blind and low vision individuals to operate food service facilities. “I was so impressed with what Will said about the program. I became excited about this opportunity. I followed up and followed up.” Stephen completed six months of training, worked as a relief operator, and later took over a vending route at the CDC. By 2022, he successfully bid on a snack bar and micro-market at the Floyd Twin Towers in Atlanta, eventually expanding to multiple locations. “Follow up, follow up, follow up. Thanks to BEP, I beat the odds.”

Jasmine Moore has built a life defined by resilience and service. After graduating from Kennesaw State University, she began work at the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office. Starting as a paralegal, she was later promoted to program manager for diversion programs in the PACE Unit, where she helps individuals find better paths and reduce recidivism.

Jasmine also founded Grateful Hands, Inc., a nonprofit that empowers people with disabilities through scholarships, inclusive career fairs, and holiday sponsorships. With GVRA’s support, including a modified van, she gained independence to drive herself to work and continue her mission of advocacy.

“I am dedicated to creating a world where everyone, regardless of ability, has the chance to thrive and achieve his full potential,” Jasmine said. She added: “I would absolutely recommend the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency to anyone living with a disability who may need assistance for ‘big’ life moments.”

Jared Matanae turned to the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) under the Department of Integrated Services for Individuals with Disabilities (DISID) to pursue his dream of becoming a licensed cosmetologist. With DVR’s support, he enrolled at Mariacy Beauty Academy (MBA), where tuition, tools, exam costs, and licensing fees were covered. In MBA’s inclusive environment, Jared gained the skills and confidence to thrive. “Being a barber, you have to have good marketing skills and know how to communicate with your customers,” he explained. After graduating, Jared joined Butterhouse Barbershop in Dededo, Guam, where his schedule quickly filled with 4 to 12 clients daily. “In the barbering business, you always need to be hungry for more to succeed,” he emphasized. Today, Jared thrives as a professional barber with plans to open his own shop—proof that determination and support can turn dreams into reality

Amy’s story is one of perseverance, purpose, and hope. She registered with Hawaii DVR at just 14, encouraged by her Teacher for the Visually Impaired, and began attending youth programs that built her confidence and skills. After losing both her parents at a young age, Amy found strength through DVR summer camps and employment opportunities, including an expedition to the Grand Canyon that left a lasting impact.

With DVR’s support, she pursued higher education, earning an associate’s degree, then a bachelor’s in social work from the University of Hawaii in 2018. Inspired by her own experiences growing up around hardship, she committed herself to helping others. She went on to complete her master’s degree in 2019 while working full-time, determined to make her education count.

Today, Amy serves as a Social Worker IV with the State of Hawaii’s Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Along the way, she married in 2022 and became a proud mom in 2024. By engaging with vocational rehabilitation early, investing in education, and pursuing her passion, Amy is now living the life she dreamed of: a meaningful career, a loving family, and a future filled with possibility.

In 2022, Devin was referred to Idaho Vocational Rehabilitation by his teacher, opening the door to career exploration programs that helped him identify his future path. By graduation in 2024, he set his sights on becoming an RV Service Technician. With VR’s support, Devin attended the National RV Training Academy in Texas, where he completed advanced certifications in RV service, solar and generator systems, and inspections.

Returning home, Devin joined his family business, Austin RV, LLC. His skills allowed the company to expand into in-house repairs, mobile services, and inspections, creating significant growth. “Voc Rehab helped me so much with getting my training and skills to grow our business,” Devin said. Today, he’s driving success in Idaho’s RV industry.

In 2017, Jacques LaCour was diagnosed with Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy, a genetic condition that caused irreversible vision loss. This life-changing event occurred just as he and his wife were expecting their first child, and it also led to the loss of his job. Facing uncertainty, Jacques received support from his former mentor, Diane Rocket, and her husband, who organized a fundraiser to help with medical and living expenses.

With determination and a passion for technology, Jacques connected with the Illinois Department of Human Services’ Division of Rehabilitation Services (IDHS-DRS). He gained access to assistive technology and training, including screen readers and keyboard navigation skills. With this support, Jacques returned to school, where he earned a master’s degree in Cyber Defense with a perfect 4.0 GPA.

He now works as a Cybersecurity Incident Responder, protecting organizations from cyber threats. Beyond his own success, Jacques continues to give back — donating remaining funds from his fundraiser to help others in need. His journey demonstrates the impact of perseverance, community, and vocational rehabilitation in overcoming life’s toughest challenges.

In August 2024, Josh began working at the Indiana Pacers Team Store, which sells fan gear and apparel for both the NBA’s Pacers and the WNBA’s Indiana Fever. It didn’t take long for Josh’s work ethic and positive attitude to get noticed.

Josh credits his success to the early work experience he gained through summer jobs while in school and after graduation. When the pandemic shut down his workplace, Josh found himself without a job. Thanks to consistent support from his vocational rehabilitation counselor and job coach, he stayed focused and didn’t let the setback define him. Josh even recalls his new manager telling him, “I’ve got your back.” That belief in his potential helped him regain confidence and momentum.

One year later, Josh continues to thrive in a role where he feels valued and seen. “Josh has been a valuable member of the Pacers and Fever Team Store over the past year,” his manager shared. “He’s friendly, dependable, and quick to offer a smile. He did a marvelous job packing web orders and helping us through the Pacers NBA Finals, the WNBA All-Star game, and the Fever Stranger Things collection release. No matter how tall our task is for the day, Josh always approaches work with a positive attitude and is ready to contribute to our success. We are lucky to have him on our team!”

After a stroke left Jason Sartain with only central vision, the longtime Master Electrician faced a daunting reality. He could no longer drive, continue his fieldwork, or even teach weekly electrical apprenticeship classes. But Jason wasn’t ready to give up.

With support from Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation’s low vision services, Jason explored new possibilities. VR’s small business enterprise team helped him with a business plan, driver’s training, and assistive technology. While exploring his options, Jason was offered a teaching role at a local trade school.

Today, Jason teaches two classes of high schoolers and an adult apprenticeship course, uses assistive tech daily, and is thriving in a role that allows him to share his expertise. “This program helped show me that I still had worth. I had ability and knowledge, and that was worth something.”