Eggleston Marketing, Author at Eggleston Services VA

Posted on February 10, 2021 by Eggleston Marketing

Eggleston is grateful to the many individual donors and family foundations whose financial gifts in 2020 and beyond are keeping adults with disabilities connected and supported during the pandemic.

Through philanthropy, Eggleston’s mission is able to weather difficult times like COVID-19 and can expand to create more opportunities, access, and support for adults with disabilities in Hampton Roads.

Gratitude for Gifts:

Independence Middle School Donation — Pictured above: A donation of toiletries from Independence Middle School which helped pack 30 personal care kits.

The board and staff would like to give special thanks and recognition to:

The staff of Vandeventer Black LLP,

E.T. Gresham Company, Inc., Langley Federal Credit Union, and to Langley for Families, for empowering adults with disabilities in Hampton Roads through their charitable giving.

MANCON and F.C.I Towers, whose monetary donations put gifts under the tree and provided food donations for those in need over the holiday season.

Insperity for giving their time to wrap gifts for 103 Angel Tree recipients.

The National Junior Honor Society of Independence Middle School for collecting and donating 5 boxes of personal care items for those we serve.

Still Working for Alexandra:

Despite wanting to work, people with disabilities are less likely to be hired than their peers without a disability. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Labor, the unemployment rate of people with disabilities ages 16-64 was nearly twice the rate of unemployment for persons without a disability in 2019.

Eggleston is not only among the largest employers of people with disabilities in Hampton Roads, it’s Community Employment program also works with the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) to help create and find employment in the community for people with disabilities.

When local employer Jones Printing Inc. had an opening in their warehouse, they knew just who to call for the best possible candidate for their hiring needs.

“We toured and knew right away based on the conversation with Jones Printing who the right person for the job would be,” said Kimberly Heath, Eggleston’s Community Employment Program Manager. “Alexandra does not let anything stop her.” Click here to read the full story >>

A Place of His Own:

Drew Belote Image — Photo Credit: Virginian-Pilot article – Drew unpacking in his new apartment with the help of his mother, Pam Belote.

Drew Belote, at age 32, moved into his own apartment in December, finally making his parents empty nesters.

Drew has worked for Eggleston’s document shredding division for more than five years. His dad, Dave, eventually joined Eggleston’s board and has helped lead Eggleston’s strategic effort to expand residential opportunities for people with disabilities.

Thanks to a new partnership with Eggleston and The Breeden Company, Drew is able to live independently in his own apartment with the level of support he needs to make that possible.

You can help adults with disabilities.

There are so many ways you can support the programs and services that empower and enrich the lives of people with disabilities in Hampton Roads.

Get Involved

Give a Gift

Donate Goods

Posted on February 8, 2021 by Eggleston Marketing

Please use this list as a guide for our Presidents’ Day Hours.
For questions or additional information please call our front desk team at 757-858-8011 or email them at Info@egglestonservices.org

Thank You!

Posted on January 26, 2021 by Eggleston Marketing

Alexandra and Jones Printing:

A Community Employment Spotlight

Eggleston’s Community Employment Program is the intersection for local businesses looking for hard-working, dependable employees and adults with disabilities in search of meaningful employment.

Alexandra utilizes a wheelchair for her mobility, so it can be challenging to find jobs in the community that can support her accessibility needs. In early 2020, Alexandra worked with an Employment Specialist through the Community Employment Program and secured a position with a local retailer. Unfortunately, just as Alexandra was getting settled in, COVID restrictions caused her to lose her job.

This past Summer, Mark Jones, President of Jones Printing, reached out to Eggleston in need of a staff person to work in their warehouse. After learning more about the position and touring the warehouse, Eggleston’s employment specialist had the perfect candidate in mind: Alexandra.

“Alexandra does not let anything stop her from reaching her goals, she is one of the most determined young ladies I have ever supported!” –Kimberly Heath, Manager of Community Employment

Alexandra participated in a working interview and was hired on the spot! She started her new position at Jones Printing on October 6, 2020, working two days per week from 8am- 3:30pm. Jones Printing made environmental modifications within Alexandra’s first week on the job. This included lowering the time clock, toilet paper holder, and hand dryer, and they even repainted the wheelchair accessible parking spot outside of the building.

Being out of work from March to October was tough for Alexandra, so she’s very excited to be working with Jones Printing. They have given her the ability to not only be another employee but part of their team, something she greatly missed.

Click here to learn more about our Community Employment Program.

Posted on January 20, 2021 by Eggleston Marketing

Partnering with Breeden Co. to

Increase Housing Options for Adults with Disabilities

Eggleston was started in 1955 by a group of parents seeking meaningful activities for their adult children with disabilities. Over the years, Eggleston has grown and expanded to offer a variety of work programs, brain injury services, veterans programs, day support programs, and residential services-all designed to empower and enrich the lives of adults with disabilities.

Recently, Eggleston and The Breeden Company joined forces to create a new independent living model that expands Eggleston’s residential services and increases community-integrated housing options for adults with disabilities. The first resident moved into his own apartment in November and the second resident, Drew, moved into his apartment in December. To learn more about the new program and Drew’s journey to independent living, please check out the recent article in Inside Business.

Posted on December 18, 2020 by Eggleston Marketing

Please use this list as a guide for our Winter Holiday Hours.
For questions or additional information please call our front desk team at 757-858-8011 or email them at Info@egglestonservices.org

Thank You and Have a Wonderful Holiday Season and a Happy New Year!

Posted on November 13, 2020 by Eggleston Marketing

Countdown to Giving Tuesday!

Donate Now Facebook Fundraiser

Add to Calendar

‘Tis the Season for #GivingTuesday!

Giving Tuesday was created in 2012 as a simple idea: a day that encourages people to do good. Over the past 8 years, this idea has grown into a year-round global movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity by supporting local nonprofit organizations that are near and dear to your heart.

The work that Eggleston does is not just important, it is Essential. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic we have remained open and have had not just a positive Impact on those we serve, but also on the community.

During quarantine we continued to provide around the clock care in our residential facilities and found new ways of serving brain injury survivors using new technology equipment and digital platforms. We also continued with our essential business services, processing millions of pounds of laundry and provided food services for hospitals and other military facilities.

We need your help to reach our $5,000 fundraising goal, which allows us to continue weathering COVID-19 as we provide support services in areas of employment, housing, and day programming for adults with disabilities across Hampton Roads.

Please consider making a gift on Giving Tuesday, or even start your own fundraiser (you can utilize Facebook Fundraisers, or take the traditional route by personally reaching out to your family and friends).

Posted on November 10, 2020 by Eggleston Marketing

A Symbol of Resilience – Remembering Kelly Ferrell

Kelly Ferrell 1 The Eggleston family recently lost a long-time member of it’s team, Kelly Ferrell. She was a shining star from the moment she began working in the Norfolk, Virginia office of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers under the AbilityOne program at Eggleston in 1993.

During these challenging times, as we reflect on Kelly’s 27 years of service, we are grateful for the incredible impact she had on us all here at Eggleston and those she worked with at Army Corps of Engineers. Kelly inspired her colleagues as she overcame various challenges in her day-to-day work and in her lifetime. She was, and will continue to be, a symbol of strength and resilience for those who knew her and worked with her – now and in the days, months, and years ahead.

Thank you, Kelly, for your service, your leadership, and for paving the way for people with disabilities.

Gratitude for Gifts:

Eggleston is grateful for the generosity of all of it’s donors. Thank you to the following organizations for their recent gifts:

American Legion Tidewater Post 327 for their generous gift in support of programs for adults with disabilities.

The Hampton Roads Community Foundation for generous support through their COVID relief fund.

KOVAR, a Knights of Columbus Charity, whose gift will allow us to purchase an industrial fan for our laundry facility that employs 80+ people with disabilities.

MANCON in support of Eggleston’s Angel Tree that will provide clothing, food and gifts for those in need this holiday season.se an industrial fan for our laundry facility that employs 80+ people with disabilities.

United Way of South Hampton Roads for their renewed support of Eggleston’s veteran services, brain injury services and job placement programming; and for providing COVID recovery funding to provide those we serve with food and housing assistance.

USAA for choosing Eggleston as a worthy nonprofit for their ‘Move for Cause’ employee campaign.

2020 Community Impact Report

Eggleston’s fiscal year wrapped up June 30, 2020. Thank you to our board, volunteers, staff, associates, partners, donors, sponsors and more who have demonstrated resilience and commitment in the most challenging of times. Read more here.

Community Events:

Christmas Trees for Sale & Outdoor Volunteer Opportunities

Give back this season by purchasing your Christmas tree from Eggleston’s Garden Center! All sales generated are reinvested into programs and services that empower and enrich the lives of adults with disabilities.

Volunteers are also needed to assist with Christmas tree sales beginning Thursday, November 19 through mid-December. Weekdays and Weekend shifts available. Contact Brad Kirkpatrick at 757-625-2044 or email gardencenter@egglestonservices.org to request more information.

Save the Date for Giving Tuesday!

This year, we need your help to reach our $5,000 fundraising goal, which will help us continue providing meaningful employment opportunities, support services, and programs for individuals with disabilities throughout Hampton Roads. Please consider making a donation, or even starting your own fundraiser (you can utilize Facebook Fundraisers, or take the traditional route by personally reaching out to your family and friends).

Support our Angel Tree

Sign-up and shop from Eggleston’s (VIRTUAL) Angel Tree to help someone in need this holiday season. Drop off items at 1161 Ingleside Road in Norfolk, or have your Amazon purchase shipped directly to us, by November 29. Last year our generous community helped 80+ Eggleston residents, associates, and families at Eggleston have a brighter holiday season. Click here to sign up. For questions, email or call 757-858-8011.

Brakes for Vets Initiative

In honor of Veteran’s Day, Eggleston in partnership with Centric Parts and Parts Authority, will give away brakes for up to 20 Hampton Roads-area military veterans. Additionally, when you mention this promotion 10% of proceeds will be donated to Eggleston’s Warrior Bridge veterans program in November!

Click here for more information and to refer a worthy veteran!

Posted on November 5, 2020 by Eggleston Marketing

“I was so sorry to hear of Kelly’s passing. I’ve been with the Corps of Engineers for 20 years and she was here before me. Kelly taught me how to send FEDEX and with a name like Kelly you just can’t go wrong, lol! She was always kind and understanding. We are going to miss her special treat boxes during the holidays. Rest in Peace, Kelly! We will miss you.”

– Kelli Fairbanks

“Kelly was a very pleasant and friendly person to work with. I always appreciated that she would call me down for anything that looked significant for payroll and government travel card services. This would happen every so often if the payroll office or Citibank had an issue getting mail to the employee’s home address. This helped me and employees avoid hardships and ultimately support the overall Corps mission. She will be missed.”

– Danielle Harper

“I was so very shocked to hear of Kelly’s recent passing. She was a wonderful person and a dedicated worker. My thoughts and prayers are with her family. May she rest in peace.”

– Kathy Perdue

“I am saddened to hear the news of Kelly passing. She was such a sweet and delightful person and I enjoyed running into her in the mailroom or throughout the building – we always had such good conversation! She was an incredibly hard worker and would do anything for anyone. My thoughts go out to her family and also her Eggleston family.

We will miss her here at the District!”

– Krista L. Rice

“Kelly Ferrell was brave, kind, and determined. She worked hard to get things done right the first time always with a smile. Kelly went forth every day in kindness. I will miss her.”

– Alice Pool

“I’ve worked at USACE Norfolk District since 2006, and Kelly was one of the first people who reached out to me and said a friendly word. Kelly was always willing to answer my questions, or to just chat with me which made me feel more welcome in a new office. Every time I passed the mailroom, I would always call out a, “Hey Kelly!” and it makes me so sad to know that I won’t be able to do that anymore. My condolences go out to Kelly’s family, and to her friends, Z and Milton, in the NAO Mailroom- Kelly was a bright light. She will be missed very much, not only by me, but by many at USACE Norfolk District.”

– Stormie S. B. Wicks

“For many, many years during the Christmas holiday, Kelly would bring to each floor / office(s) in the Waterfield Building baskets and baskets of candy and goodies!! She was a much appreciated employee and part of the US Army Corps of Engineer / Norfolk District family. We all loved her and offer our sincerest condolences to her family.”

– Scharlene A. Floyd

“Kelly, Army Corps of Engineers angel and sweetheart. The Army Corps of Engineers was a part of Kelly’s extended family. She loved each of us and made sure all our requests were taken care of. I’m a retiree, and I remember one phone number from all the years I worked at the Corps…..the mail room. I called Kelly several times each week. “Kelly, I have a letter and/or package that needs to be in today’s mail. Can you wait ’till I get downstairs before the mail goes out?” Kelly ALWAYS waited and ALWAYS greeted me with kindness no matter how often I called. Kelly was a friend and Kelly touched my heart. Rest in peace, dearest Kelly.”

– Susan Schrader

Kelly Ferrell started working in the mailroom at the Norfolk, VA office of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) in 1993 through the AbilityOne® Program at Eggleston. The AbilityOne® Program is among the largest sources of employment in the United States for individuals who are blind or have significant disabilities, employing approximately 45,000 individuals across the nation.

When she first started working in the mailroom, Kelly found backlogs of parcels that needed to be shipped. She meticulously sorted the parcels by importance and time sensitivity, and subsequently implemented a new process to prevent future backlogs. With her proactive, detail-oriented nature and effective communication skills, it was clear Kelly would do amazing things with the ACOE.

She worked hard to overcome significant physical challenges from cerebral palsy, like figuring out how to pick up a mail tray without falling– an achievement she would proudly share.

Overtime, Kelly worked her way up to the Mailroom Supervisor where she was responsible for all incoming and outgoing mail, mailroom computer operations, and the training and management of two employees. She often stepped up and helped with tasks that were outside her duties and responsibilities. She was always very approachable, provided outstanding customer service, and was beloved by her coworkers.

To show their appreciation for her hard work, The Army Corps of Engineers gave her an assigned parking space and installed a special railing next to the door she used to enter the building.

In 2009, Kelly Ferrell was the recipient of the Evelyne Villines Award for the East Region. This Award recognizes an individual with a significant disability who advances from work on an AbilityOne contract into employment at a nonprofit, private, or government agency. When the Army Corps of Engineers learned she won the award, they organized a special lunchtime recognition event where the ACOE Commanding Officer was in attendance.

Sylvia Hines, former Director of Supported Employment, met Kelly through Eggleston. Sylvia worked closely with the VP of Government Contracts to staff contracts Eggleston was awarded. Sylvia initially helped Kelly get a job in community, but recognized that she’d be a great potential fit for the ACOE contract.

“Kelly was a strong, independent person. She believed in creating opportunities and making things happen for herself… She was an advocate for people with disabilities and took part in advocacy efforts and leadership conferences where she would share her personal story,” Sylvia stated, reflecting on many wonderful memories of Kelly. “She never forgot a holiday or a birthday. The 18 years I’ve been gone, and she never forgot a single birthday of mine.”

Sylvia also shared that Kelly had two heroes – one was national disability advocate and speaker, Evelyne Villines, who also had a physical disability and overcame many challenges – and the other was Paul Atkinson Sr., Eggleston’s Chief Operating Officer.

Outside of work, Kelly had an eclectic taste in music and enjoyed collecting recordings, including limited editions. One of her greatest pleasures was driving her Ford Mustang with its adapted controls. She believed her ability to drive was one of her most important accomplishments because it has given her an invaluable sense of independence and freedom.

As we reflect on Kelly’s years of service, we are grateful for the incredible impact she had on all us at Eggleston. Kelly overcame many challenges in her day-to-day work and in her lifetime. She will forever be a symbol of strength and resilience for those who knew her and worked with her.

Thank you, Kelly, for your service, your leadership and for paving the way for people with disabilities.

Tribute Wall:

“I had the pleasure of working with Kelly through her entire career with Norfolk District Corps of Engineers. Kelly Ferrell was a caring and giving person who improved Norfolk District through her selfless service every day. Whenever anyone requested assistance from Kelly, she followed through until the task was completed, no matter the challenge or length of time it took. To watch Kelly enter and exit her vehicle every day was a testament to her dedication and inspired anyone who knew her. She was known for doing quiet acts of kindness. For years, she gave each office in our large organization, a goodie box at Christmas often baking the items herself. She was like the “ever ready” bunny. I will miss her smiling face but so glad her struggles are over and she is resting peacefully in heaven. Thank you and God Bless You, Kelly. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.”

– Mrs. Cherie Kunze

“I just have fond memories of Kelly. Whenever I picked up packages from the mailroom, I would end up chatting with her for awhile! She was very nice and personable. I enjoyed knowing her. So sorry to hear about her passing.”

– Gina Baer

– Kelli Fairbanks

– Danielle Harper

“I was so very shocked to hear of Kelly’s recent passing. She was a wonderful person and a dedicated worker. My thoughts and prayers are with her family. May she rest in peace.”

– Kathy Perdue

We will miss her here at the District!”

– Krista L. Rice

“Kelly Ferrell was brave, kind, and determined. She worked hard to get things done right the first time always with a smile. Kelly went forth every day in kindness. I will miss her.”

– Alice Pool

– Stormie S. B. Wicks

– Scharlene A. Floyd

Posted on November 2, 2020 by Eggleston Marketing

Support Eggleston Family Members in Need.

We are excited to launch our 2020 Angel Tree to support some of our residents, associates, and employees who might need a little extra help around the holidays! If you would like to assist with our Angel Tree you can choose your angel online by visiting http://bit.ly/AngelTreeSignUp.

Don’t forget – items are due back to us by November 30th!

Return unwrapped items to either 1161 Ingleside Rd., Norfolk or 3525 N. Military Hwy., Norfolk

Eggleston will also be supporting many employees with food, gift cards and in other ways as well throughout the holiday season in appreciation for all that they do!

For questions or to sign up for an angel over the phone please contact

Kristen Ricks at 757-858-8011 or ricks.kristen@egglestonservices.org.

Posted on October 19, 2020 by Eggleston Marketing

Congratulations to Eggleston’s 2020 Annual Award Winners

Robert “Michael” Sadowski – Associate of the Year Day Program Services, Peninsula Day

Michael has been with Eggleston since 2013 and is known for his kind heart and polite manners. If you’re having a bad day or going through a rough time Michael will go out of his way to make you feel better with cards, pictures or just a kind word.

He loves arts and crafts and listening to music. Some of his favorite musicians are Ann Murray, Carol King and Helen Reddy. When the weather is nice Michael enjoys going for walks and when its not as nice he likes to take rides in the van.

James “Preston” Wagner – Associate of the Year Residential Services, Sawyer House

Preston has been a resident in one of Eggleston’s homes for many, many years. He is often referred to as the “Man of the House” because he is protective of the other residents and he is very handy. He is a huge Steelers fan and was very excited that football didn’t get canceled this year.

Preston was working but retired several years ago. He now enjoys attending Eggleston’s Day Program, volunteering at meals on wheels, attending church, and just getting out in the community.

Tania Meechan – Associate of the Year Brain Injury Services, Beacon House

When Tania began attending Beacon House, 2½ years ago she was quiet, shy, and insecure. She didn’t fully understand her limitations nor her strengths and was resistant to help. Once she accepted help from the staff she began to accept herself and see what she had to offer to others. She has become a leader at Beacon House. During the physical shutdown of the program (March – June) Tania facilitated a weekly zoom meeting for the members. She assisted the program manager with disinfecting the building, reorganizing the various units, and planting and maintaining the Beacon House garden. She is still learning to ask or assistance, when needed which is just another way she is leading by example.

Thomas Demary – Associate of the Year Community Employment, Pollard’s Chicken

While Thomas has been a resident in one of Eggleston’s group homes and used our day support services for about 4 years it was about a year ago he expressed a desire to get a job in the community. He entered the Community Employment program where he participated in several assessments in the community based on his interests to see which job would be the best for him. He started with Pollard’s Chicken in September 2019 and with the help of his Employment Coach he has been able to learn his job duties and develop new skills that offer more responsibilities.

Thomas takes a lot of pride in his work, never complains, and completes each task in a timely manner. He is proud to be part of the Pollard’s team and has not missed a day of work since he started. Thomas says the employment opportunity at Pollard’s along with the services he receives from Eggleston has allowed him to have a job, salary, to learn new tasks, develop friendships with his co-works, an opportunity to show he is able to do a good job at work, and allows him to leave his home to interact and meet new people in the community.

Robert Williams – Employee of the Year, Detailer EAC

For almost 11 years, Robert has been a detailer at Eggleston’s Automotive Center (EAC) cleaning and preparing the vehicles donated to Eggleston for auction. In addition to doing the best job he can and he is also quick to help a co-worker or supervisor whenever they need a hand. Robert makes the worksite a better place. He is always one of the first to learn a new training and is happy to show best practices to his fellow co-works. He is full of historical facts and loves to share his knowledge with this team by writing a new fact on the white board each day.

Robert has also always been an avid supporter and promoter of Eggleston and its events. Whether it’s passing out flyers to a community event or encouraging his coworkers to join him there. Robert truly embodies the Eggleston quality statement of Excellence in Action.

Edward Witkowski – Veteran of the Year, Production Supervisor Laundry Services

Eddie joined Eggleston in 2018 as the production supervisor in our Norfolk laundry after serving 20 years in the United States Navy. Today he take the same hands on approach and attention to detail he used in the Navy to oversee the day to day schedules for 15 different military and commercial contracts to make sure millions of pounds of laundry are cleaned, processed and delivered each year. We are lucky and proud to have veterans like Eddie as a part of the Eggleston team.

Tameo Joseph – Excellence in Action, DSP Residential Services

Tameo Joseph or TJ has held numerous roles in our residential services program during her 14 years with Eggleston. During her time here, she has maintained an impressive level of professionalism and regularly goes above and beyond her job expectations to ensure a productive and safe environment for those around her. Her hard-working, dedicated approach along with her considerations for others has made TJ a beloved and valued member of the Eggleston community and most of the residents would agree that she feels more like family than a staff member.

Tania Lee – Paul J. Atkinson Sr. Leadership Award, Interim Director of Business Services

Tania has been a vital member of the Business Services team for almost 7 years. In that time, she has successfully managed multiple business lines, helped create more work opportunities for individuals with disabilities and veterans, and helped to increase the Business Operations overall net profit 348% in 3 years.

Tania is committed to those she supports often staying late to provide additional training or working to create improved processes for her team members. Her dominating personality, intellect and effective communication aides in the relationships with stakeholders and ultimately helps provide additional jobs for the individuals we support!