Author: Steph H

Machine gun fire ripped through Jason Redman’s elbow, destroyed the bones above his eyes, shattered his jaw and left him with a partial nose.

The Navy SEAL took another round on his right side, caught in a deadly ambush to capture a high-value Al-Qaeda operative – a scene his team leader would later describe as the closest fire mission ever executed in Iraq.

Thought for dead, Redman survived that attack and dug deep to find what later would become his mantra, an Overcome Mindset that prioritizes attitude to determine outcome.

The Virginia Beach resident will share his story as the keynote speaker at VersAbility Resources’ Annual Fundraising Gala from 6 to 10 p.m., on Oct. 23 at The Mariners’ Museum. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available now.

“Everybody at some point is going to walk into an ambush,” says Redman, a motivational speaker, executive coach and top-selling author today. “These are those hard moments that just come along and knock us off our feet.”

Redman spent 11 years as an enlisted SEAL and a decade as a SEAL officer, leading teams into combat missions in Iraq and Afghanistan. The events from Sept. 13, 2007, left him permanently disfigured.

“That day became a benchmark for me,” he said. “It changed everything in my life.”

The extent of the nerve damage was unclear, Redman heard doctors say 96 hours later at the Bethesda Naval Medical Center. He was told he would never be able to use his left hand again. Amputation of an arm was discussed.

His world wasn’t just rocked. It was forever gone.

The Ohio native, whose military family includes a grandfather who flew bombers during World War II, a father who served in Vietnam and siblings in the Marines and Air Force, joined the Navy at age 17. Virginia Beach became his home after being sent there for boot camp. He completed SEAL training two years after graduating high school.

Lying in that hospital in Maryland, his jaw wired shut, Redman could only listen while processing the conversations at his bedside.

He heard two physicians talk about soldiers coming home broken and battered.

“They’re never going to be able to get back out there.”

“What a shame.”

It was what he calls a “The End” moment.

Only for Redman it was a new beginning – the chance to forget who he had been and focus on who he could become.

He motioned to his wife to let him write something, and he scribbled out a message on orange paper to post on the door to his room that urged anyone feeling sorry for him to go elsewhere.

“The room you are about to enter is a room of fun, optimism, and intense, rapid regrowth.”

While most can’t relate to the damage from literal bombs and bullets, the multiple stressors in life – an untimely medical diagnosis, a lost job, a dying business, anxiety – are also a version of ambushes, challenges that grind many to a halt, Redman said.

We get stuck, paralyzed at what Redman calls the X – fixated on the pain and misery of what’s been lost.

Redman refused to be a victim. He vowed to return to his full physical capability and go beyond that by strengthening his mental tenacity even further.

That means positivity over negativity every time.

That means hard moments turn into great opportunities.

“You have to be willing to overcome,” Redman says.

Often there is no ideal option or outcome, an obvious light at the end of the dark tunnel. That’s when acknowledgement of short term pain for long term gain is the best solution.

“It took me 12 years to get to the point where I am now,” said Redman, who delivered a Ted Talk  “How To Get Through Hard Times,” five years ago.

Redman retired from the Navy in 2013 when he founded Wounded Wear, today the Combat Wounded Coalition, a nonprofit to support wounded warriors and their families. He is also the founder and CEO of SOF Spoken, which offers leadership workshops for businesses, sports teams, first responders and government organizations.

The Old Dominion University honors graduate, whose book “The Trident” is part of the Chief of Naval Operations’ professional reading program, earned a Bronze Star Medal of Valor and a Purple Heart among numerous other service awards.

He and his wife, Erica, are parents to three children. Redman has endured 37 surgeries.

“The only thing stopping you from creating greatness in your life is you,” he said. “When you are struggling, get off the X and overcome.”

VersAbility is so grateful to have Redman join their event on Thursday, October 23^rd at the Mariners’ Museum to share his story and inspire others! Don’t miss out on an unforgettable evening and purchase your tickets now.

VersAbility Resources is proud to announce it has received a $100,000 grant from Truist Foundation in support of its Future of Work initiative—a strategic program designed to expand employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities across southeastern Virginia. The three-year grant period, running from March 2025 through March 2028, will allow for long-term impact and program development.

The Future of Work initiative focuses on breaking down barriers to employment by providing personalized career support, reskilling and upskilling programs, and greater access to inclusive job training for people with disabilities.

“This generous investment from the Truist Foundation is a powerful catalyst for change,” said Kasia Grzelkowski, President and CEO of VersAbility. “It allows us to deliver personalized, high-quality workforce development services that not only prepare individuals with disabilities for meaningful employment but also connect employers to a diverse and capable talent pool. Together, we are creating a more inclusive future of work.”

“We’re proud to support VersAbility’s Future of Work initiative to advance workforce development in the Commonwealth,” said Thomas Ransom, Truist’s Virginia regional president. “Built to benefit both individuals and local business owners, the program is aligned with Truist’s purpose to inspire and build better lives and communities.”

VersAbility has been empowering individuals of all abilities for over 70 years through education, employment and advocacy programs and is very grateful for the support of Truist Foundation.

VersAbility Resources, The Arc US, and Norfolk International Airport are excited to once again co-host a Wings for All® event on Saturday, May 3, 2025. This unique program provides individuals with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), along with their families, the opportunity to practice navigating the airport experience in a structured and supportive environment.

Wings for All is designed to alleviate the stress and uncertainty that individuals with IDD and their families may experience when traveling. Participants will have the opportunity to go through the full airport process, from check-in and TSA security screening to boarding an aircraft. The event also serves as an educational opportunity for airport, airline, and TSA personnel to better understand how to enhance the travel experience for passengers of all abilities.

“We are thrilled to partner with The Arc US and Norfolk International Airport to bring this important program to the Hampton Roads community once again,” said Keltie Bransford, VersAbility’s marketing and development manager. “By providing individuals with IDD the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the airport process, we are helping to reduce anxiety and build confidence for future travel.”

Volunteers from Hampton University’s Aviation Program will also be on hand to assist with event programming, ensuring that participants receive the guidance and support they need throughout the experience.

The event is free to families and open to all individuals with IDD, but pre-registration is required as space is limited.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, May 3, 2025

Location: Norfolk International Airport

Schedule:

1:30 pm – Registration/Check-In

2:30 pm – Board the Plane

3:30 pm – Reception

Participants can register online at https://fs30.formsite.com/wingsforautism/pbi7eq5ela/index.

For more information about Wings for All, visit thearc.org. To learn more about the May 3 event at Norfolk International Airport, contact Keltie Bransford with VersAbility Resources at kbransford@versability.org or 757-896-6473.

VersAbility Resources is proud to welcome five distinguished community leaders to its 2025 Board of Directors. Each new member brings a wealth of expertise and leadership experience across various sectors, further strengthening the organization’s mission to empower people with disabilities.

The newly appointed board members are:

• Dr. Raymond Haynes – Superintendent, Hampton City Public Schools
• Retired Rear Adm. Brad Williamson – President and CEO, Perrarus Solutions
• Crystal B. Bright – External Affairs Manager, Dominion Energy
• Howard Hoege, III – President and CEO, The Mariners’ Museum and Park
• Lynn Taylor – President, Zel Technologies

“VersAbility is incredibly fortunate to have such an accomplished group of leaders dedicating their time and talents to our organization and mission,” said Kasia Grzelkowski, President and CEO of the Hampton-based nonprofit.

VersAbility provides comprehensive support for individuals with disabilities at every stage of life, offering workforce training and employment programs, early childhood services, residential support and day programs throughout Hampton Roads and beyond.

Each new board member shares the organization’s vision of creating a more inclusive community and, Grzelkowski said, “their collective expertise will drive innovation and expand opportunities for people with disabilities.”

This announcement comes at a pivotal time as VersAbility prepares to launch its 2030 Strategic Plan, aimed at expanding services, workforce solutions and increasing economic and social inclusion for people with disabilities. “People with disabilities contribute immense value—not only to our hearts and minds but also to our economy,” said Casey Roberts, Executive Vice President of Strategy and Development. “Our vision is to support individuals at every stage of life, from early development through adulthood. Moving forward, we want to ensure that every person who is capable has the opportunity to actively participate in society—whether through employment, independent living or community engagement.”

VersAbility Resources commemorated seven decades of service and community impact at its 70th Anniversary Gala, hosted in late October 2024 at The Mariners’ Museum. The event brought together supporters, advocates, and community leaders to honor VersAbility’s longstanding commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities across Hampton Roads. The evening raised over $138,000, which will directly benefit the organization’s diverse programs and services.

Over 160 guests attended the celebration, which featured a retrospective look at VersAbility’s impact since its founding in 1954. Through personal stories shared by program participants and heartfelt messages from family members, attendees were reminded of the positive changes VersAbility has brought to the lives of thousands. The funds raised will be directed toward enhancing VersAbility’s programs in employment services, day support and early childhood assistance, among others.

The event was keynoted by Abigail the Advocate, a successful model, actor, athlete and motivational speaker who was born with Down syndrome. Guests also enjoyed gourmet dining, live music, and a silent auction featuring exclusive items generously donated by local businesses, artists and service providers.

“This milestone is not just a reflection of VersAbility’s legacy, but also of the countless individuals, families and supporters who believe in creating inclusive opportunities for all,” said VersAbility CEO Kasia Grzelkowski, expressing gratitude to attendees, community partners, and event sponsors. “Their generosity ensures that VersAbility will continue to expand our services and create new pathways to independence for the next 70 years.”

VersAbility extends its heartfelt thanks to the event’s sponsors, including presenting sponsor TowneBank, volunteers, and attendees whose contributions made the evening a resounding success. The organization looks forward to the future, with plans to build upon its programs and continue championing accessibility, employment and community support for individuals with disabilities.

For individuals with disabilities, accessing reliable transportation is a crucial factor in leading an independent, active life. Our friends at Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) offer a lifeline to many through its paratransit services, providing a flexible, door-to-door service tailored to those who cannot use standard public transportation due to physical or cognitive limitations. At VersAbility Resources, we understand the value of such services in enhancing accessibility, inclusion and freedom for the disability community.

These transportation services are not offered directly through VersAbility Resources.

What Is HRT Paratransit?

HRT’s paratransit service provides Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant transportation across the Hampton Roads region. The service is available to residents in communities served by HRT’s fixed-route buses and light rail, ensuring they have access to medical appointments, work, grocery stores and social activities. Trips are scheduled directly with HRT, making it a convenient, dependable option for individuals who rely on public transit to participate in daily activities.

Key benefits include:

• Door-to-door service: Riders can be picked up and dropped off at specific locations rather than designated bus stops, making transportation more accessible and manageable.
• Flexible scheduling: Passengers can arrange rides up to 14 days in advance, offering peace of mind for appointments and personal errands.
• Dedicated support: HRT’s team is trained to assist riders with disabilities, ensuring a supportive and accommodating environment throughout the journey.

Why Paratransit Matters

For many, paratransit is more than just a ride; it’s a pathway to community engagement, economic opportunity, and overall well-being. At VersAbility, we see firsthand how vital this service is to the lives of individuals we serve. Paratransit allows them to:

• Maintain independence: With access to reliable transportation, individuals with disabilities can live with greater autonomy, whether it’s attending a class, social event, or simply enjoying time out in the community.

• Access employment opportunities: Reliable transportation is often a significant hurdle for individuals with disabilities seeking employment. Paratransit helps bridge this gap, connecting people with work sites across the region.

• Attend essential appointments: From healthcare to therapy, paratransit ensures individuals can attend crucial appointments, supporting both physical and mental health.

How to Qualify, Apply and Use Paratransit

To access HRT’s paratransit services, individuals must meet specific eligibility criteria under the ADA. Generally, this includes those with physical, sensory, or cognitive disabilities that prevent them from using HRT’s regular fixed-route buses. The application process involves submitting documentation of the disability and may include an interview or assessment.

If you or someone you know is interested, visit gohrt.com/paratransit for more information on eligibility, the application process and any fees associated with the service. A mobile app is also available for download from the site along with helpful hints on how to use the HRT Paratransit web portal.

Our Commitment at VersAbility

At VersAbility Resources, we are dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities to live full, independent lives. We believe that services like HRT’s paratransit are essential tools for inclusion and accessibility, aligning with our mission to support people in achieving personal goals. Through our work and partnerships, we advocate for resources that promote mobility and independence, and we’re here to help connect individuals to services like HRT paratransit that open doors to new opportunities and a more inclusive community.

With the right resources and support, individuals with disabilities can lead lives of their choosing—and we’re proud to stand beside them on this journey.

For the Radcliffe family, the introduction to VersAbility came early in their beautiful twin boys’ lives.

Tara and her husband, Scott, already loving parents to a toddler, Hazel, knew they would face a variety of challenges caring for their new twins, Nicholas and James. The boys were born premature at 28 weeks and 5 days, and went straight into the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at the Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters (CHKD) in Norfolk.

Nicholas would spend 89 days in NICU, while James remained for 152 days, a heart wrenching ordeal made a little easier thanks to the staff who encouraged them to investigate early intervention services.

“We had lots of meetings with CHKD doctors and time spent with their social worker, and early intervention was one of the things they kept bringing up,” said Tara. “They made it clear it was something we’d definitely want to look into.”

Tara and Scott were grateful to have been given information on the resources that would be made available to them. “At the time, you don’t know how delayed or not they will be. That’s how we first heard of VersAbility Resources and EPIC.”

VersAbility’s Early Prevention and Intervention for Children (EPIC) Program helps children with developmental delays and their families to reach each developmental milestone.

EPIC addresses the reality that infancy and early childhood are critical times in human development. Children under the age of 3 with disabilities need specialized therapies to prepare them for success in school, work and life. Failure to provide these supports comes at a cost to each child, their family and the community.

Once both James and Nicholas were able to come home from CHKD, Tara and Scott contacted VersAbility and met with Service Coordinator Katie Bell who discussed the type of support options that would be available to them.

When both boys were only six months, they begin to explore getting services such as occupational therapy. This was especially important for James, born at just 2 pounds 5 ounces, who needed help with even simple things like keeping his head up. “We were keen on contacting VersAbility as soon as they came home, to see what could be offered,” Tara recalls.

With help from VersAbility, Tara and Scott and enrolled both boys in occupational therapy, and James in feeding therapy. Both boys qualified for Medicaid, allowing the family to receive both services free of charge. The pair shared a therapist, Denise, who would do in-home sessions with James twice a week and Nicholas every other week, since he was bigger and moving faster. Eventually, Nicholas would go on to day care, where he quickly picked up new skills.

However, James would stay behind and required assistance from Nicole, an in-home private nurse who helps James with his gastronomy tube (G-tube) and other needs.

Meanwhile, Denise has continued to meet with James twice a week, since the spring of 2023. Her support has included feeding therapy – doing everything from helping James drink from a straw, learning to use utensils, and manage textures of food – in addition to occupational therapy which have gone extremely well.

“Denise has helped James with lifting his head and rolling over, to the point where now he’s walking and climbing the stairs,” says Tara. “She’s had him on his baby trampoline, she’s had him using the push walker. We can’t thank her enough for her dedication.”

James has progressed to no longer needing feeding therapy, just the occupational therapy, and he recently began receiving speech therapy services. His speech therapist, Lauren, is from the same agency as Denise, all conveniently coordinated through Katie at VersAbility.

The level of teamwork between Nicole, Denise, and Lauren has been invaluable. “There have been days when Scott and I are at work, and nurse Nicole is with James all day, and then Denise will come, and the three of them will do the session,” Tara explains. “Nicole is kind of like the third parent, she’s always been that extra person who has met with Denise or Lauren on our behalf when we couldn’t be there for every session, and she helps manage the schedule.”

Ultimately, the services coordinated through VersAbility have had a significant positive impact on the Radcliffe family’s life. The best part has been the relationships they’ve formed with each of the therapists, especially Denise.

“Having been with James since he was 6-7 months old to now, Denise has just been a part of the family,” says Tara. “We send her pictures, and she’s always checking in. If James is sick, she’s always calling in. They really have bonded, since he’s known her since he was a tiny baby. The consistent interactions have been so important.”

James has physically grown from the therapy sessions, right before Tara and Scott’s eyes.
“It’s really working. You can really see the benefits with the things he’s been able to overcome in the beginning and where he is now. He’s ready to go to day care now, and I credit that a lot to the time we’ve put into his therapy sessions.”

The Radcliffe’s have enjoyed being part of a supportive community working through VersaAbility and taking advantage of the EPIC program.

“Katie was always in contact with the same agency,” explains Tara. “We had Denise this whole time, and when it came time to get a speech therapist, we found someone in the same agency who actually had worked together with other clients and patients. It made us feel at ease because everyone was already comfortable with each other and welcomed us in versus everyone having to get to know each other.”

Tara and Scott also found it extremely helpful to be able to receive services from local providers through a process that VersAbility made seamless.

“Working with Katie, I was really grateful for how easy the process was,” Tara says. “I thought there would be a million forms and hoops to jump through and waiting lists, but Katie made it so easy. She was very clear with the timelines, everything is done electronically, and she comes to your house.”

For other families facing similar challenges, Tara says to not be afraid of or intimated by the process. “It couldn’t have been easier to get them in the EPIC program. I’m happy about that, because when you have twin newborns, the last thing you can do is spend time going downtown or going to whatever office. VersAbility made it extremely easy.”

And for James and Nicholas, the future is now extremely bright.

“We see both twins, especially James, on track to follow a typical developmental path, reaching milestones as expected. We are so happy that he can join his siblings at day care and that he’s able to be in that same age group, and that in a way, he has caught up to them. We’re really excited that he can join his peers and fit in.”

VersAbility’s EPIC program provides free developmental screenings for any child under the age of 3 living in Hampton and Newport News. VersAbility serves each referral, regardless of budget constraints or the family’s ability to pay. Through the EPIC program, nearly 700 children with disabilities receive tailored therapies annually, maximizing their abilities and future potential.

To learn more about EPIC and other early childhood services available through VersAbility, go here.

Tidal Wave Auto Spa, the nation’s fourth largest conveyor car wash company, hosted their 16^th annual Charity Day event on Friday, September 20. The company is pleased to announce this year’s event raised a record-breaking total of $685,142, all of which will be donated entirely to local charitable and non-profit organizations.

This year, Tidal Wave Auto Spa at 7027 George Washington Memorial Hwy in Gloucester was proud to partner with VersAbility Resources for this year’s event, raising $1,823.10 through their daily wash proceeds and on-site donations. These funds will be donated directly to VersAbility Resources, and will aide in their continued efforts to support people of all ages with disabilities lead full and productive lives of their choosing. 

Tidal Wave’s 16^th annual Charity Day event supported over 250 charitable organizations across 269 participating Tidal Wave locations. Over the years, Tidal Wave’s Charity Day event has made a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals and organizations. Over the event’s sixteen-year history, Tidal Wave has donated over $2 million, underscoring the company’s dedication to making an impact in the communities they serve.

“Charity Day brings our communities together to support organizations that are doing incredible work,” said CEO and founder Scott Blackstock. “I’m grateful that Tidal Wave can highlight these truly wonderful organizations during Charity Day and raise funds that help them to continue doing the important and impactful work they are doing within our communities.”

In addition to Tidal Wave’s annual Charity Day event, which received two consecutive gold Brandon Hall Group HCM Excellence Awards® for Best Initiative for Philanthropy and Corporate Giving, the company also gives back year-round through fundraising. Tidal Wave’s fundraising program has helped raise over $3 million for local organizations, and provides a simple, fast, and convenient way to raise money for local schools, churches, civic groups, and more.

To learn more about Tidal Wave Auto Spa’s Charity Day, visit: tidalwaveautospa.com/charityday/.

Tidal Wave Auto Spa was founded over 20 years ago in Thomaston, GA by husband and wife, Scott and Hope Blackstock. What started as a small-town self-service car wash business, evolved into the first conveyor car wash open in Georgia, and is now the fourth-largest conveyor car wash company in the nation with 282 locations sprawling 29 states. Tidal Wave is committed to providing every customer an exceptional car wash experience through industry-leading car care technology, clean and attractive locations, and outstanding customer service. In 2020, the company partnered with Golden Gate Capital to facilitate their accelerated growth and has been included in the Inc. 5000 list of America’s Fastest Growing Companies for the past five years. Tidal Wave has continuously strived to make a positive impact in the communities they serve, and has raised over $3 million dollars for local programs, service organizations, and non-profit organizations through the company’s fundraising program and annual philanthropic Charity Day event.

Do you know of someone with a disability looking for a warm, supportive place to live?

VersAbility Resources may have just the answer, with openings now available in its Community Living homes. These Medicaid Intermediate Care Facility (ICF) homes provide 24/7/365 care for adults with cognitive and physical disabilities – offering personalized assistance and valuable opportunities for residents to live full, independent lives.

Valuable community living and residential services are provided in each of VersAbility’s eight residential homes in Hampton, Newport News and York County. Caring staff provides support around the clock. Nurses and dieticians are available for both long- and short-term health needs.

VersAbility Community Living homes are unique in that they offer a variety of leisure and recreation activities. For example, staff members develop monthly activity calendars with input from residents.

In addition to ample living space, each Community Living home is equipped with a large kitchen, fully equipped bathrooms, access to outdoor space for fun and a vehicle for community outings.

“VersAbility’s community living homes are designed to offer more than just care; we strive to create a nurturing environment where residents can thrive, build relationships and participate in the community,” said Kasia Grzelkowski, CEO of the Hampton nonprofit. “We look forward to welcoming new residents and continuing to provide life-changing support to people with disabilities.”

Vacancies may be found in the following Community Living home locations:

Newport News

• Cloverleaf – Five-bedroom home with a private back yard
• Hilton – Five-bedroom home fully equipped to meet higher needs

York County

• Rich Road – Five-bedroom home tucked in a quiet neighborhood

Waiver Homes, each accommodating five adults, have vacancies available in these Newport News locations:

• Bruton – Quaint home in a lovely community
• Groome – Beautiful home with ample outdoor space

The VersAbility team works directly with people seeking housing support, aging parents needing assistance for adult children, families who plan to move their loved ones out of an institution or those who want a more independent living option nearby.

VersAbility operates the homes in conjunction with Envisions Day Support and other community services.  VersAbility is an equal housing opportunity provider, fully licensed through the Virginia Department of Health, and does business in accordance with the Fair Housing Amendment. Families or guardians interested in learning more about VersAbility’s Community Living homes, inquiring about available openings or scheduling a tour can contact Ebonee Atkinson at 757-343-8689 or eatkinson@versability.org.