By: Wilson R. Cherry

Rowan Vocational Opportunities

Ethel Vinson has spent most of her adult life working in assembly, manufacturing and production plants. An untimely accident rendered her disabled and in semi-retirement.

Having experienced several career changes, from working in group homes to foster parenting, she became a senior inspector at Hitachi Metals from 1991 to 2003. Ethel expressed that she was frequently depressed and despondent until she was selected to participate in the Title 5 Employment Program in which seniors, 55 and older, have an opportunity to work 20 hours per week with governments or non-profit agencies.

“Sometimes it’s difficult overcoming the stigma that older adults have difficulty learning new skills and dealing with health issues that affect attendance and dependability,” Ethel said. “Working at Rowan Vocational Opportunities has been such a rewarding experience.”

Vinson said her work at the agency helped her appreciate and respect people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“Each day I am inspired to be the best that I can be. When I am in pain, I just look around and see the turmoil some of our consumers face and realize how blessed I am,” she concluded.

Rowan Vocaional Opportunities will be celebrating its 50^th anniversary in the spring of 2016, and there will be numerous activities and events to celebrate. As one of 16 United Way agencies, RVO works collaboratively with other non-profits to help maintain quality human services in Salisbury and Rowan County.

Cherry is director of community affairs at Rowan Vocational Opportunities.