Don’t Give Up

In this podcast episode, Cindy Bray and Nicole Woodruff begin this conversation and explore various topics related to disabilities, how to navigate life’s challenges, and empower those with disabilities to be self-sufficient and discover their true potential. 

They talk about how Hope Services is dedicated to working with individuals with physical limitations, mental health issues, learning disabilities, and more to help them obtain meaningful employment and focus on being self-sufficient. Cindy first became involved with helping those in need when her first child was born and after falling sick was diagnosed with a disability.  Cindy took the time to learn and grow with her daughter allowing her to understand disability in a new light. Cindy’s co-host, Nicole, is the Director of Vocational Training at Hope Services, and her initial interest in helping people living with disabilities began when she had a stepdaughter diagnosed with comorbid disabilities. Unfortunately, Nicole hit many roadblocks in the school system as she engaged with those living with disabilities, having taught for 6 ½ years in special education before having the opportunity to move into vocational training. 

Self-advocacy is among one of the many skills that Hope Services teaches along with programs focusing on job training programs, pre-placement training programs, and more. Pre-placement training focuses on the interview process, understanding your paycheck, writing a resume, following up after an interview, and other important skills required to secure employment. 

Cindy also stresses the importance of accentuating the positives and eliminating the negatives. By focusing on what you are able to do and accomplish rather than what you may not be able to do and being negative, you will continue to succeed and make the best of any situation that comes your way. 

Take-Away: Accentuate the Positives, Eliminate the Negatives

• It is exceptionally important to empower those living with disabilities and to focus on their strengths and what they are able to accomplish, rather than focus on what they are unable to do. Hope Services wants to help individuals living with disabilities realize their full potential and thrive in the world.