Division of Vocational Rehabilitation customers celebrate successes
DSHS’ Division of Vocational Rehabilitation is dedicated to offering tools, services, and support to help people with disabilities find meaningful work. Staff offer individualized vocational rehabilitation counseling, employment services and supports to people with disabilities who want to work but face substantial barriers in finding meaningful and sustained employment. Staff also provide technical assistance and training to businesses regarding the recruiting and hiring of people with disabilities. Here are some recent successes for DVR customers.
Ghida’s story:
My name is Ghida Ramadan, and I was born with Cerebral Palsy. I live in Kent, Washington, and I’ve received services through DVR that have profoundly impacted my journey toward independence as an adult.
One of the most significant ways DVR has supported my independence was by helping me adapt my car and providing the necessary training to learn how to drive — a goal I once thought would never be possible. Gaining the ability to drive has given me a greater sense of freedom and independence that has truly changed my life.
DVR has also made it possible for me to continue my education by offering financial assistance. This support allowed me to pursue my academic goals and continue learning — something that has always been important to me.
I look forward to continuing my work with DVR as I strive to expand my opportunities and achieve my goals in the workforce. I’m grateful for everything DVR has helped me accomplish so far, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.
C.P.’s story, shared by Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Mishana Williams:
C.P. came to DVR in 2019. Early on, C.P. had to place his job search on hold to help his wife, who had had recently suffered a massive stroke. When his wife recovered, C.P. dove into the job search process with complete dedication, attending job fairs, working with his Community Rehabilitation Programs, and completing further job training.
DVR supported C.P. with ferry passes, substantial counseling, and career guidance. Upon his first job offer, he was let go early from the assignment, but three months later he got another job.
All through 2023, C.P. worked and pursued further job training in his own time. In April of 2024, he was laid off due to budget cuts. By October, he was referred to Business Engagement Services to receive job search support and interview preparation. I’m proud to say that C.P. never missed a meeting, attended every job fair offered to him, engaged in practice interviews, and applied to jobs regularly.
As of March 2025, C.P. has been hired by a county as a Facilities Maintenance Supervisor for their Parks Department. This position has room for upward growth, is within his desired wage range, and aligns perfectly with his skill set. After nearly six years and many setbacks and challenges, we are thrilled to see C.P. gainfully employed and exuding so much confidence and joy.
