National Rehabilitation Counselors Appreciation Day, observed annually on March 22, is a day to honor the dedication and contributions of rehabilitation counselors who help individuals with disabilities achieve personal, social, psychological and vocational goals.

In recognition of the day of appreciation, we asked some of our Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) staff this question:

What does it mean to you to be a VR counselor?

Kary Boerboom, Rehabilitation Representative (Marshall)

To me, working as a VR representative is about being part of real people's lives during moments that truly matter. We all know this job isn't just paperwork or appointments, it's listening, problem solving and helping someone take steps they might not have believed were possible. What I value most is the shared purpose we have as VR counselors and reps, seeing potential where others sometimes only see barriers, and partnering with people as they work toward a future they can feel proud of. The work can be challenging, but it's also grounding and meaningful. Being surrounded by colleagues who care just as deeply makes it even more worthwhile.

Amanda McLain, Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (Winona)

Like many in this profession, I believe that everybody is ready to take a step, big or small, toward the right job. In my role working with the Go MN! program, I get to support people in their discovery and understand what they are ready for. We present program participants with different options to choose from – from hands-on experience and training to job shadows and short-term experiences. They get to take steps toward employment at their own pace.

VR work is unique because we support people in all stages of life, whether they are in high school getting ready to enter the workforce, or looking for a job more toward the end of their career. Many VR participants describe employment as freedom, independence, empowerment and success. It's incredibly rewarding to see past participants thriving in their jobs.

Kelli Turbs, Rehabilitation Representative (Worthington)

When I began thinking about my long-term career goals, I knew I wanted to help teenagers and young adults who may be facing difficult circumstances, particularly those with substance abuse disorders or involvement with the justice system.

My passion for this work comes from my own experiences: I dropped out of school at 15, later earned my General Educational Development (GED) High School Equivalency at 19, and now I'm just one year away from completing my master's degree! My journey has shown me that a difficult start in life does not define a person's future.

Being able to help someone identify their strengths, expand their support systems, access resources and move toward their long-term goals is deeply meaningful to me. This is the work I'm meant to do, my true vocation, and brings me an incredible sense of pride. I look forward to continuing in this field for many years to come.

VRS helps job seekers prepare for, find and keep a job, and live as independently as possible. VRS's mission is to empower Minnesotans with disabilities to achieve their goals for employment, independent living and community integration. For more information on VRS services, visit the VRS website or call your local office.