October 2, 2008

For more than six decades the month of October has been dedicated to recognizing disabled people in our country. All year, the Virginia Department of Rehabilitation Services helps disabled people maximize their employment opportunities and independence in society.

“It’s something I've always had an interest in since I was a child,” said Francis Vineyard.

Vineyard always knew he wanted to work in development, but growing up tone deaf with only 30 percent of his hearing, he wasn’t sure if his dream could become a reality.

“Growing up I felt was an outcast, and I couldn't hear what people were talking about,” said Vineyard.

A vocational development councilor from the Virginia Department of Rehabilitation Services helped Vinyard land an internship with Charlottesville's Neighborhood Development Services.

“He did such a great job that we were able to convince city council to create a position in the budget for the work load and move him right in there,” said director of Neighborhood Development Services, Jim Tolbert.

Vineyard eventually worked his way up from intern to building inspector.

“He actually pushes the envelope for other inspectors and gets in early, figures out who's doing the inspections and does more than his share,” said Tolbert.

While his hearing may not be one hundred percent, Vineyard says he has an eye for small details.

“Building inspectors need to pay attention to every detail, and I seem to just pick it right up and catch things. Out in the field I tell people I’m a fresh set of eyes,” Vineyard said.

Vineyard’s boss hopes all employers will look beyond a persons disabilities, and not let it hinder their hiring decisions.

“He sets an example for all of us,” Tolbert said.

For more information on what the Virginia Department of Rehabilitation Services is doing this month, visit their website, http://www.vadrs.org/.