Support the CED for WVU Day of Giving on March 26

WVU Day of Giving happens tomorrow, Wednesday, March 26! For the past several weeks we have been sharing stories on social media that highlight how your gift will make an impact on the lives of West Virginians with disabilities and their families. We have gathered those stories here so they can be viewed in one place.

On Day of Giving, you can give directly to the WVU CED and make a difference.

MODIFY program client earns social work degree

The Mentoring and Oversight for Developing Independence with Foster Youth (MODIFY) program provides ongoing services and resources specifically to meet the education and training needs of eligible former foster youth of West Virginia interested in furthering their education.

Through the support of the MODIFY program at the WVU CED, Shannon Ward achieved a significant milestone, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in social work from Concord University in May 2024. Shannon aspires to work as a Child Protective Service (CPS) worker at the Department of Human Services and pursue a master’s degree in social work.

Shannon’s ultimate goal is to become the role model she needed as a young person in foster care. Her message to other foster youth pursuing education is one of unwavering hope and resilience: “Follow your dreams, never give up on yourself, don’t settle for less, and stay determined to achieve every goal you set for yourself.”

Your donation will help fund programs aimed at teaching skills for independence, employment, access to quality healthcare, and community participation for individuals with disabilities.

Traumatic Brain Injury program helps client regain confidence and continue education

“After my accident, I struggled with the long-term effects of my traumatic brain injury. The WVU CED’s TBI Services program has been a lifeline for me. The comprehensive needs assessment helped identify the specific support I required, and the return-to-learn program made it possible for me to continue my education. The support groups have been invaluable, providing a sense of community and understanding that I desperately needed. Thanks to the dedicated team at the WVU CED, I have regained my confidence and am on a path to a brighter future.”

In a rural state like West Virginia, access to specialized TBI services is vital. The WVU CED’s TBI Services program addresses these needs by providing comprehensive support, including needs assessments, return-to-learn/play programs, support groups and access to neuropsychologists. These services are essential for helping individuals with TBIs regain their independence and improve their quality of life.

The WVU CED’s innovative approach, including the TBI Services program, ensures that individuals receive personalized care tailored to their specific needs.

Country Roads program helps students adjust to college life

Monongalia County native Spencer Hession is a WVU student who started his higher education journey with the Country Roads program. Country Roads prepares students with intellectual and developmental disabilities for independence by providing academic courses, social engagement and real-world work experiences.

"I learned how to take the bus and how to use my money for necessities like food and water," said Hession. "I learned how to get homework in on time. I learned how to manage money and I also learned how to fit in at WVU."

Spencer graduated from the Country Roads program last May and is now enrolled in courses at WVU while utilizing services through the Autism Support Program to navigate college life.

Your support enables the CED team to develop and implement innovative programs that directly assist individuals with disabilities and their families, from early intervention to transition planning for adulthood. Our services are available for children, adolescents and adults of any age.

WVATS helps farmer restore sense of purpose

"As someone living with a physical disability, I always struggled with maintaining my independence, especially in a rural area like West Virginia. WVATS introduced me to a range of adaptive tools that have truly transformed my life. With the help of a modified tractor, I can now continue working on my family farm, something I thought I’d never be able to do again. The mobility aids and ergonomic tools provided by WVATS have not only made daily tasks easier but have also restored my sense of purpose and connection to the land. I am incredibly grateful for the support and resources that have allowed me to stay engaged in the work I love.” – WVATS client

Programs like the West Virginia Assistive Technology System (WVATS) at the WVU CED offer resources and support to help people access devices and make informed decisions about assistive technology (AT). This includes a robust loan library where West Virginians can borrow AT devices for free, including adaptive chairs (pictured), ramps, braille devices, adaptive recreational gear like fishing rods and so much more.

Your gift to the CED will make a profound impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families in West Virginia. Each contribution, no matter the size, plays a crucial role in creating environments where everyone has the opportunity to maximize their potential.

Disability Employment Services helps client find dog grooming career

Disability Employment Services at the CED helps job-seeking individuals with disabilities find meaningful employment.

One of the many success stories from this program features a client who wanted to work with animals. With support from the CED's Disability Employment Specialist, the program connected her to a local dog daycare, grooming and boarding business. This job not only matched her career dreams but also gave her the chance to work in a role she truly enjoys.

Your gift to the CED on March 26 will help fund programs that enhance the quality of life for West Virginians with disabilities by providing education, research, clinical and community services, and resources that promote independence, personal contribution and support.