Meet Jeffery
Jeffery is a valued employee at the Riverview Plaza Hotel, where his reliability and strong work ethic help keep operations running smoothly each day. Like many individuals with disabilities, finding the right fit in the workplace wasn’t always easy. Jeffery is on the autism spectrum, and the challenges of navigating the job search once made steady employment feel out of reach.
Through VOA Southeast’s Supported Employment program, individuals receive personalized assessments, job coaching, and connections to employers who recognize their strengths. Jeffery’s experience reflects how the right support—paired with perseverance—leads to meaningful work, stability, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Jeffery holds a certificate from Riverview Plaza Hotel recognizing 5 years of service. Next year will be 10 years since he joined the company
Jeffery’s Success with VOA Southeast’s Supported Employment
When we first sat down with Jeffery, relief came through in his voice. He talked about work with a sense of hope that had not always been there.
For years, finding a steady job felt impossible. Jeffery is on the autism spectrum, and the job search often overwhelmed him. Social expectations, fast-paced environments, and uncertainty made each step feel harder.
College and life after school brought moments of progress, but also painful setbacks. At one point, deep depression kept him at home and left him unsure of what could come next.
Then he met people who refused to give up on him.
“It changed my life. I found something that was a good fit for me…something I could learn how to do and be good at, and stick with it.”
— Jeffery (client)
Getting Connected
A turning point came in 2017, when Jeffery connected with VOA Southeast staff through vocational rehabilitation.
From there, Anthony Lewis, our Director of Supported Employment, walked alongside him. Anthony made introductions, arranged assessments, and helped Jeffery identify job tasks that matched his strengths. He also helped him work through temporary placements that could lead to long-term employment.
“Anthony really came to my side,” Jeffery told us. “He tried to find a stable job…something that catered more to my strengths.”
Over time, that patience and hands-on support made a difference.
After a few months with a temp agency, Jeffery began working at the Review Plaza Hotel, part of PCH Hotels & Resorts. He started under contract in March 2017. Then, after completing his assessment and continuing to show up, learn, and grow, he was hired on September 20, 2017.
In his role, Jeffery stocks linens and towels so housekeepers can prepare rooms each morning. It is steady, physical work. And it fits him.
“It changed my life,” Jeffery said. “I found something that was a good fit for me…something I could learn how to do and be good at, and stick with it.”
Jeffery Finds Structure
As a result, Jeffery’s days began to look different. Instead of staying home and feeling trapped by depression, he found structure. He had a routine, a purpose, and a workplace that valued his reliability.
During the busiest weeks, even when he worked seven days straight, Jeffery became someone the hotel could count on. In fact, managers relied on him to train new hires. He took pride in doing the job well.
At the same time, Jeffery appreciates the flexibility his supervisors provide. When deliveries run late or linens run short, he sometimes has to stay later to finish the shift. In those moments, his managers work with him.
He has seen others try the job and decide it was not for them. Still, Jeffery stayed. Because of that perseverance, he created stability for himself and for the hotel.
About VOA Southeast’s Supported Employment Program
At VOA Southeast, this is the kind of outcome our job coaching and placement teams work for every day. Our Supported Employment program serves close to 200 individuals each year. On average, we are able to move 2/3 of those we serve into meaningful jobs with an average of 25 hours per week. Our approach prioritizes:
- individualized assessment to match tasks with strengths;
- coordinated supports — from vocational rehab referrals to on-site assessments and job coaching;
- employer partnerships that create real opportunities and allow for reasonable accommodations; and
- long-term follow-up so people like Jeffery can keep succeeding even when schedules, staffing, or supplies change.
Employment is more than just income — it’s dignity, routine, and mental health. When an individual’s talents are recognized and matched with the right supports, the results can be transformative. “It keeps me busy,” Jeffery said. “It’s good, physical work. I appreciate Anthony for helping me out as much as he has these past nine years.”
If Jeffery’s journey moves you, know that it’s one of many. VOA Southeast helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities find meaningful employment. That commitment to people and walking alongside them is the journey—and we are here for every step.