One of the benefits of membership is being able to tap into all of the knowledge of our staff. Perhaps nowhere is this more important than when it comes to training and workforce. Being able to find the right person, at the right organization, at the right time, is a huge timesaver and help to our members. Jim Wilson, our Director of Education & Workforce Development, has done the work of collecting these key contacts for you! Questions? Reach out here.
Shelly Weir, Senior Vice President of Career Development, sweir@ahla.com
Virginia Department of Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS) -https://www.vdrs.org/index.htm DARS offers no-cost services to employers across Virginia to help with their employee recruiting, screening, training and retention efforts. You gain dedicated employees, enhance your workplace's diversity and talent, and lower your hiring and training costs. Dedicated business development managers are a valuable one-stop resource who can increase your awareness of the advantages of hiring people with disabilities. Learn how you can Put Ability to Work in your region today.
David Leon, Phone: (804) 662-7151, Email: david.leon@dars.virginia.gov, deputy director of workforce programs and Ticket to Work coordinator
LaPearl Smith, Phone: (540) 431-0538, Email: lapearl.smith@dars.virginia.gov, business development manager for the Northern Virginia region, covering DARS' Leesburg, Manassas, Fredericksburg, Alexandria, Manassas and Fairfax offices
Nate Mahanes, Phone: (434) 515-0061, Email: nate.mahanes@dars.virginia.gov, business development manager for the Blue Ridge district providing services to the Lynchburg, Charlottesville, Harrisonburg, Fishersville and Culpeper field offices
Beth Groff, Phone: (804) 863-1620, Email: beth.groff@dars.virginia.gov, business development manager for the Roanoke, Martinsville, Danville and South Boston areas
Melissa 'Missie' Edmonds, Phone: (757) 358-2488, Email: melissa.edmonds@dars.virginia.gov, business development manager for the Hampton Roads region
William 'Wes' Seaton, Phone: (804) 652-7706, Email: william.seaton@dars.virginia.gov, business development manager for Central Virginia/Richmond
