Please use these lists as a guide for our November 11, 2025 hours in observance of the Veterans’ Day holiday. For questions or additional information please call our front desk team at 757-858-8011 or email them at Info@egglestonservices.org
Thank You!
Every October, Eggleston joins people and organizations across the country to celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) — a time to recognize the important contributions of workers with disabilities and to promote inclusive workplaces that strengthen our communities.
This year’s national theme, “Access and Equity: Advancing with Inclusion,” reminds us that true progress happens when everyone has the opportunity to participate, contribute, and thrive.
Empowering People Through Employment
Since 1955, Eggleston has been committed to creating education, training, and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. What began with eight employees has grown into a network of over 30 programs and businesses that employ hundreds of people across Hampton Roads.
From Eggleston’s document shredding and landscaping services to our food services, laundry operations, and the Eggleston Garden Center, each program is built on the belief that meaningful work fosters confidence, independence, and community connection. By offering a variety of work programs Eggleston strives to find opportunities for people of all abilities.
We’ve seen firsthand how access to employment changes lives—not just for those we serve, but for the businesses and neighbors who benefit from their dedication, skills, and teamwork.
Why NDEAM Matters
National Disability Employment Awareness Month is about more than celebration—it’s a call to action. While progress has been made, barriers to employment still exist for many individuals with disabilities.
By shining a spotlight on inclusion, NDEAM encourages communities like ours to reimagine what’s possible when workplaces are accessible, hiring practices are equitable, and everyone is given a fair chance to succeed.
“Inclusion is not a favor – it’s a foundation. When we empower people of all abilities to thrive at work, we build a stronger, more innovative, and compassionate world” states Janice Whitaker, Eggleston’s Director of Human Resources
How You Can Support Inclusive Employment
There are many ways our community can help advance inclusion and support Eggleston’s mission:
Together, We Make a Difference
National Disability Employment Awareness Month is a time to celebrate the abilities and accomplishments of people with disabilities—and to recognize the strength of a community that believes in inclusion.
At Eggleston, we’re proud to stand with our partners, neighbors, and supporters who help create a world where everyone has the opportunity to live, work, and grow with purpose.
Because when we build inclusive communities, everyone benefits.
On Thursday, September 18, 2025, Eggleston staff and program participants came together with community leaders, partners, and supporters at Hilton Norfolk – The Main to celebrate a remarkable milestone: Eggleston’s 70th Anniversary. The evening was filled with inspiration, music, and heartfelt recognition of seven decades of empowering individuals with disabilities throughout Hampton Roads.
The gala opened with a lively cocktail reception, where guests mingled, browsed the silent auction items, and shared stories and experiences of Eggleston’s enduring impact. Emceed by the esteemed Barbara Hamm-Lee, Executive Producer and Host of Another View on WHRO Public Media, the program guided attendees through an evening of gratitude and celebration.
A highlight of the night was a powerful message from Paul J. Atkinson, Sr., who was the CEO of Eggleston from 1988 – 2023, and an endearing message from Hope Bress, who retired from Eggleston in June after 50 years of continuous service. You can find both of their messages below.
Guests also enjoyed an engaging performance by jazz icon Jae Sinnet and his trio along with a three-course dinner and the excitement of a live auction, which featured unique items and once-in-a-lifetime experiences donated by generous community partners.
Thanks to the support of sponsors, donors, and attendees, the event raised critical funds to sustain Eggleston’s mission of providing education, training, employment, and community-based services to adults with disabilities. The evening would not have been possible without the support of Presenting Sponsor TowneBank, along with Premiere Sponsor R3, Champion Sponsor Versability Resources, Host Sponsor Hilton Norfolk – The Main, and many others.
For 70 years, Eggleston has been a leader in creating opportunities and fostering inclusion for people with disabilities. From its humble beginnings as a vision of parents seeking meaningful futures for their adult children, Eggleston now serves nearly 2000 individuals annually with over 30 programs, ranging from residential support to business enterprises that employ hundreds of adults with disabilities.
The 70th Anniversary Gala was not only a celebration of Eggleston’s legacy but also a powerful reminder that the organization’s work is just beginning. As CEO Dr. Mark Carlson, shared, “The 70th Gala was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Eggleston’s mission, our people, and the community. There are so many rich stories from the past 70 years, and I look forward to hearing countless more. For me, the evening was especially meaningful because I shared it with our employees and the community members we serve. I’m already looking forward to the new Eggleston stories we’ll hear in 2026. Thank you to everyone who made our 70th celebration so special!”
Eggleston extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended, donated, and celebrated this milestone with us. Together, we honored the past while paving the way for a future of inclusion, opportunity, and empowerment.
To learn more about Eggleston’s programs and services—or to join in supporting its mission—visit www.egglestonservices.org.
Every day, your business handles documents containing sensitive information. From employee records and financial statements to client data and strategic plans, this information is invaluable. But what happens when these documents are no longer needed? Tossing them in the recycling bin creates a significant security risk. This is where professional shredding services come in, but a crucial question remains: are shredding services safe?
For any business, ensuring the confidentiality of its data isn’t just good practice; it’s essential for maintaining trust, protecting against fraud, and complying with legal regulations. Choosing the right method for secure document disposal is a critical decision. This guide will walk you through the safety measures, certifications, and processes that define secure document shredding services, and how Eggleston ensures your business stays protected.
Improperly discarded documents are a goldmine for individuals with malicious intent. A single invoice, payroll slip, or client file left in a dumpster can expose your business to serious threats.
Relying on a standard office shredder might seem like a solution, but it often falls short. These machines can be inefficient, prone to breaking down, and may not shred documents to a size that is truly unreadable. Professional services offer a more robust and reliable alternative.
Understanding the process behind professional document shredding can help demystify how these services ensure your data remains confidential from collection to destruction.
The process typically begins with Eggleston supplying your business with locked, tamper-proof containers. You and your employees deposit sensitive documents into these bins. Then, on a scheduled basis, our vetted staff securely collects the materials. The locked containers are securely transported to our document shredding facility, where the documents are destroyed under strict supervision and surveillance.
After the documents are destroyed, the shredded paper is baled and sent to a recycling facility to be pulped and repurposed. This makes professional shredding a secure and environmentally friendly choice. Finally, Eggleston will issue a Certificate of Destruction. This official document serves as your legal proof of compliance with data protection laws, confirming that your documents were securely destroyed.
When choosing a shredding method, many businesses wonder whether on-site or off-site shredding offers greater protection. On-site shredding allows for real-time observation, but it often comes with higher costs, limited shredding capacity, and fewer compliance safeguards.
Off-site shredding, on the other hand, provides enhanced security with strict transport protocols, locked containers, 24/7 surveillance, and industrial-grade destruction equipment. Eggleston offers only off-site shredding at our secure facility, ensuring documents are handled with maximum security from pickup to final destruction.
Not all shredding services are equal. To protect your sensitive information, pay attention to how shredding companies handle confidential data, ensuring their processes are secure, transparent, and professional.
The gold standard in the industry is the NAID AAA Certification. The National Association for Information Destruction (NAID) is the international trade association for companies providing information destruction services. To achieve AAA certification, a company must undergo rigorous, unscheduled audits covering:
Eggleston is a NAID AAA Certified provider, giving you confidence that our document shredding services meet the highest security standards in the industry.
Understanding protocols and certifications can help you determine if shredding services are safe for your organization. Many industries are subject to strict data protection laws that mandate secure document disposal. Partnering with Eggleston for professional document shredding services helps your business comply with key regulations, including:
Knowing the shredding service risks and safety measures that are in place at Eggleston helps you safeguard sensitive information and stay compliant with data protection regulations.
Some industries handle especially sensitive data and must take extra precautions when disposing of documents. Legal firms manage client records and case files, financial institutions safeguard account and transaction data, healthcare providers protect patient health information, and government agencies handle materials tied to public trust and compliance. In these sectors, secure shredding isn’t optional; it’s a necessity.
Following document retention and destruction schedules is also key. Holding onto files longer than required can increase risk, while destroying them too soon may conflict with regulations. Eggleston helps businesses balance compliance with security by offering reliable shredding services tailored to industry-specific needs.
Choosing a professional shredding service isn’t just about destroying paper; it’s about implementing a comprehensive security strategy to protect your business, your clients, and your employees. The benefits of professional shredding services also extend beyond security—they save time and simplify document management. By selecting a certified provider like Eggleston, you gain a partner dedicated to safeguarding your confidential information while streamlining your workflow and reducing administrative burdens.
Eggleston provides NAID AAA Certified shredding services in Virginia Beach and across the Hampton Roads area for businesses, government agencies, medical offices, and more. Not only do we guarantee the secure destruction of your documents, but choosing us also supports meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities in our community.
Ready to secure your documents and make a positive community impact? Contact Eggleston today to learn more about our secure document destruction for businesses.
Through the Eggleston internship program, local high school and college students were able to work as paid interns directly supporting the individuals Eggleston serves. Internships at Eggleston give students the chance to expand their ideas regarding options for pursuing higher education or a career.
Meet Shomar, “From this opportunity, I have learned how to grow my social skills in order to help others, because I am quiet and shy. My biggest takeaway from this is seeing how communication is shown in different ways, and not just in words but body language. I enjoyed helping with arts & crafts, outings, and building a relationship with everyone. This was really fun, and I enjoyed it a lot. As an upcoming rising senior at Norview High School, I will take what I’ve learned and apply it necessarily.”
“I started at Eggleston last year as an HR assistant. I did organization, and I learned a lot of my networking skills while being here. I was finding my voice, basically, and being myself. Along with building up my character as an individual… After school, I’m coming back to Eggleston to work full-time. I love the environment, the individuals I get to meet everyday, and it’s always an experience to look for that you can’t find anywhere else.”
Daviana is an outstanding individual whose light shines in all that she does. She continuously strives for growth and improvement. She is on track to enrolling in a nursing program where she will further her passion for helping others.
Kai balances resilience with genuine care as he always makes sure that each individual he works with is truly seen and heard. As he transitions to a full-time role at Anna House, he continues to spread strength and compassion to everyone he meets.
Philips has worked as a summer intern at Eggleston for four years now. Every year she comes back with a sense of excitement and passion that mirrors our organizations mission and inspires those around her.
If you or someone you know is interested in learning about future intern opportunities please reach out to our Human Resources Department.
Press Contact: Kristen Ricks, Director of Marketing
757-858-8011 | ricks.kristen@egglestonservices.org
EgglestonServices.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | September 4, 2025 | Norfolk, Virginia
Eggleston, a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating education, training, and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, is proud to announce its 70th Anniversary Gala on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Hilton Norfolk – The Main in Norfolk, VA.
This milestone event will bring together community leaders, business partners, and supporters to celebrate Eggleston’s seven decades of impact and to raise funds that will ensure the organization’s mission continues for generations to come. The evening will feature a cocktail reception, dinner, entertainment, and a live and silent auction showcasing unique items and experiences generously donated by community partners.
The Gala will be hosted by Barbara Hamm-Lee, Executive Producer and Host of Another View on WHRO Public Media, who is well known throughout Hampton Roads for her leadership, voice, and dedication to the community. Guests will also enjoy a special live performance by renowned jazz artist Jae Sinnett, whose extraordinary talent and artistry have captivated audiences locally and nationally.
Sponsorship opportunities, tickets, and ads are now available, with proceeds supporting Eggleston’s wide range of programs and services. Current event sponsors include Presenting Sponsor, TowneBank, Premiere Sponsor, R3, Champion Sponsor, Versability Resources, Host Sponsor, Norfolk Hilton – The Main, and others who have joined in celebrating Eggleston’s lasting legacy and commitment to the community.
The Gala promises to be an unforgettable evening of recognition, inspiration, music, and community spirit as Eggleston continues to expand opportunities for individuals with disabilities across Hampton Roads.
For more information about sponsorships, tickets, or Eggleston’s 70th Anniversary Gala, please visit EGGLESTON – 70th Anniversary Gala or contact Kristen Ricks, Director of Marketing at ricks.kristen@egglestonservices.org or 757-402-3040.
About Eggleston: Eggleston is a local, nonprofit whose mission is to support and empower individuals with disabilities in employment, residential and community settings. First conceived by a group of parents seeking meaningful opportunities for their adult children, Eggleston has been serving Hampton Roads for 70 years. Today the organization delivers more than 30 person-centered programs and services to over 1,800 individuals each year. As one of the region’s largest employers of adults with disabilities, Eggleston’s business enterprises include its Automotive Center, Document Destruction, Commercial Landscaping, Garden Center and Farmers Market, and its Government and Business Contract Services. Eggleston also provides a number of rehabilitations programs including five Day Support Programs, In-home and Congregate Residential services, Brain Injury services, Warrior Bridge Veterans services, and Community Engagement services. To learn more visit www.egglestonservices.org
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Please use these lists as a guide for our September 1, 2025 hours in observance of the Labor Day holiday. For questions or additional information please call our front desk team at 757-858-8011 or email them at Info@egglestonservices.org
Thank You!
On July 26, 2025, Eggleston’s Vice President of Marketing and Development, Geraldine Eady and Director of Marketing, Kristen Ricks, were joined by several guests on News Talk 790 WNIS “Ask the Experts” show with Damien Hall. We started out by sharing a brief history of how and why Eggleston was started and how the organization has expanded over the last 70 years.
We shared highlights from the recent 16th Annual OK5K and 1-Mile Run, Walk and Roll. Thank you to all the participants, volunteers and staff that made this event such a success.
Geraldine shared the details about our 70th Anniversary Gala which will be taking place on September 18th at The Main in Norfolk. She announced our host for the gala will be Barbara Hamm Lee and entertainment will be provided by The Jae Sinnett Trio. We were honored to have Charity Volman-Winn, TowneBank Norfolk’s President, join us to talk about TowneBank and their involvement in the community. Click on the link below to hear the full story.
After the break we continued chatting with Charity about the variety of services TowneBank offers and about their continued support of Eggleston. As the presenting sponsor of our 70th Anniversary gala, TowneBank is leading the way. To hear from Charity and Geraldine click on the link below. 
In the second half of the show we checked in on what’s new at the Eggleston Garden Center and Farmer’s Market. Now is a great time to stop by for locally harvested produce. 
In the final segment we introduce Gary Cooper, Eggleston’s Veteran Coordinator, to talk about our Warrior Bridge Veteran’s program. Gary shares what is Warrior Bridge, who qualifies for this program and how people can connect to learn more. You can also learn more about how you can get involved with Eggleston from volunteering, making a donation, sign up for a newsletter, etc. Learn more about Eggleston and how you can help make a difference in the Hampton Roads community.
If so, you might have wondered about the artist behind it. That mural is the work of Karen, a dedicated member of Beacon House for the past 14 years.
In 2010, Karen had several concussions, which made it harder for her to manage everyday tasks and decisions. Through her time at Beacon House, she found structure and support—tools that helped her regain stability and apply those routines in her daily life. “Beacon House made me feel normalized and accepted in crisis,” she shared. “It opened a door for me to be myself, while also challenging me to grow.”
With a degree in art, Karen expressed interest in leading a community art project. That vision became the mural many visitors now admire. It continues to evolve, as she adds new members and staff to the piece. Beyond the mural, Karen has used her artistic gifts to give back, volunteering with the military and St. Mary’s Home.
Karen remains an active and inspiring part of the Beacon House community. She guides others through art projects, participates in the support group, and assists in the annual Headstrong Helmet Challenge. Recently, she returned to work as a preschool teacher and joined the Virginia Brain Injury Council, continuing her mission to support and advocate for others.
When asked what advice she’d offer fellow survivors, Karen said: “Look outside yourself and don’t give up. Focus on the positive. Your brain injury doesn’t define you.”
Eggleston’s Brain Injury Services is proud of Karen’s accomplishments and grateful for the many ways she uplifts those around her. We can’t wait to see what she does next!
Written by Jamie Peed, Brain Injury Case Manager
Adults with disabilities often face barriers when seeking meaningful work. Despite having valuable skills and a strong work ethic, traditional job opportunities may not provide the inclusive environments they need to thrive.
Supported employment helps remove those barriers. It connects adults with disabilities to jobs that match their interests and strengths while offering ongoing support through job coaching and training. For organizations like Eggleston, it’s not only a service but a mission to promote independence, inclusion, and opportunity—values we’re especially proud to highlight during Disability Pride Month in July, and every day through our work.
Supported employment is a person-centered model that helps adults with disabilities find and keep jobs in their communities. Unlike traditional placement services, it includes:
This model focuses on individual strengths, not limitations, and leads to lasting employment success.
For adults with disabilities, supported employment for people with disabilities means real opportunities, real pay, and real inclusion. This model centers on several key components that work together to create lasting employment success:
This is what supported employment means for adults with disabilities: a path to belonging, achievement, and independence.
The benefits of supported employment extend beyond individuals. They also impact employers and entire communities.
For Individuals:
For Employers:
Eggleston offers decades of experience in connecting adults with disabilities to meaningful careers.
The success of these programs is reflected in the lives changed and the skills gained, on and off the job.
Despite progress, employment for people with disabilities remains an equity issue. Inclusive hiring isn’t just a nice idea. It’s a smart investment in stronger communities.
Supported employment is more than job placement. It’s a path to self-reliance, inclusion, and dignity for people of all abilities. It empowers individuals and enriches the communities they serve.
Whether you’re an employer ready to build a more inclusive team or someone looking for meaningful jobs for adults with disabilities, Eggleston is here to help.
