Transforming Lives Through Employment: Kaleb Hester's Journey with GVRA

Kaleb Hester always dreamed of a job that offered more than just a few hours a week. While working part-time as a retail greeter during high school, he realized he wanted to contribute more meaningfully to his family’s income and build a stable career. His story shows how the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA) and supportive partners helped him turn that dream into reality.

Finding the Right Support with GVRA

After Kaleb completed the GVRA intake process, his case was assigned to Debbie Miller at the Athens office. Miller quickly recognized Kaleb’s desire to work full-time and his need for a supportive environment to build confidence and communication skills. She noticed Kaleb was a pleasant young man but struggled with self-advocacy and expressing himself clearly.

To help Kaleb overcome these challenges, Miller arranged for him to receive Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) during high school. These services included vocational guidance, counseling, and even driver training. Miller believed Kaleb would benefit from a job coach to provide ongoing support in the workplace.

The Role of Supported Employment

Suzanne Prchal from Wiregrass Resource Group became Kaleb’s job coach. She worked closely with him to prepare for job interviews and navigate workplace expectations. One key opportunity came when GVRA helped Kaleb interview with the Walgreens Distribution Center in Pendergrass.

Walgreens has a long-standing commitment to inclusive hiring, dating back to 2007. The company actively recruits and retains employees with disabilities, reflecting the vision of its founder, Charles Walgreen. This inclusive culture allowed Kaleb to find a workplace where he could thrive and grow.

Building Confidence and Skills on the Job

Kaleb’s role at the Walgreens Distribution Center involves warehouse work, where he applies the skills he developed through GVRA’s programs and his job coach’s guidance. With support, Kaleb improved his communication and self-advocacy, gaining confidence in his abilities.

His mother describes every day of Kaleb’s work life as a miracle, highlighting the profound impact employment has had on his independence and self-esteem. Kaleb’s story demonstrates how tailored support and inclusive employers can transform lives.

Why Inclusive Hiring Matters

Walgreens’ inclusive hiring program shows how companies can benefit from embracing diversity. By welcoming employees with disabilities, Walgreens taps into a wider talent pool and creates a workplace culture that values all contributions.

This approach not only helps individuals like Kaleb find meaningful work but also strengthens the company’s workforce and community ties. It serves as a model for other employers looking to build inclusive teams.

What Kaleb’s Journey Teaches Us

Kaleb’s experience highlights several important lessons for anyone supporting job seekers with disabilities:

• Early and ongoing support is crucial. Services like Pre-ETS and job coaching make a real difference.

  
  

• Building self-confidence and communication skills helps individuals succeed in the workplace.

  
  

• Inclusive employers provide opportunities that go beyond just a paycheck—they offer career growth and belonging.

  
  

Kaleb’s success story encourages families, counselors, and employers to work together to create more pathways to meaningful employment.