I have been an adaptive special education teacher at the high school level for over 7 years and have worked with many individuals teaching them skills they need to gain and better their independence. As they get closer to aging out of high school, we focus on employment skills; with the goal of obtaining a job and having a meaningful opportunity after high school. While not all high schools have the opportunity, my students and school staff are involved in workplace internships and are able to practice employment skills a few days a week, learning various job skills and building their resume.

While high schools can prepare students well, parents have have expressed the heartache and struggles associated with finding a business to employ their child after they graduate. Most businesses do not feel equipped to hire individuals with intellectual disabilities because of the support or assistance they may still need.

After working with and loving these students as well as their parents for many years, it broke my heart to see the barriers they were facing with finding employment. I decided it was time to stop telling parents,"I hope one day an inclusive business will come to Lynchburg, VA" and started saying "I know a place that will...and most importantly WANTS to hire your child; it's called craveABLEs."

I believe with all of my heart that craveABLEs will bring the community together, help overcome barriers, and make way for inclusive opportunities. I want everyone to leave us with full bellies, and even fuller hearts!