May is Military Appreciation Month! We are proud to honor military service this month. We extend our deepest gratitude to all who have served and continue to serve. Guided by our IDEAL principles of Inclusive Culture, Different Voices, Embracing Potential, Authentic Self and Learning & Growing, we wanted to learn more.
Pictured: Loralin, Tim and son Jacob, Derrick and Jessica
Loralin is an Outpatient Therapist in Statesville, NC. She supports individuals ages 5 and up who are experiencing behavioral and mental health challenges. Loralin has proudly served in the Air Force for the past seven years. During her time in the Air National Guard, she worked as a Material Manager maintaining inventory and supplies. She is now transitioning into an Equal Opportunity role where she will help promote fairness and inclusion. Loralin believes Military Appreciation Month is a meaningful reminder to recognize the unique culture and contributions of military members. She values the IDEAL principle of Authentic Self, knowing firsthand how important it is to feel empowered to show up as your true self!
Tim Jonas is the father of Jacob, who participates in our EMPOWER program in Morehead City, NC. Tim retired from the U.S. Marine Corps Air Wing and served as an Aviation Ordnanceman. He was responsible for the maintenance and readiness of tactical fighter aircraft, ensuring they were equipped with weapons systems for mission success. “Coming from a small rural community, I realized military service could open doors to personal growth, higher education and valuable technical skills that continue to benefit me in my post-military career,” says Tim. “The Marine Corp gave me the opportunity to rise to new challenges and become part of a team with a shared purpose. Military Appreciation Month is an important time to honor the people who safeguard our freedoms. I observe it with quiet reflection and prayer, remembering the service and sacrifice of fellow Marines, friends and family.”
Derrick is a Community Supervisor and Qualified Professional (QP) with our Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) team. He provides oversight and guidance to ensure individuals receive effective, compassionate care throughout their recovery journey. Derrick served 20 years in the U.S. Marine Corps as a Combat Engineer and Small Arms Weapons Instructor. “One of the most meaningful chapters of my service was living abroad with my family in mainland Japan for five years,” says Derrick. This experience strengthened our bond and deepened our appreciation for life’s opportunities. Military service is both a privilege and a responsibility.” He values the opportunity to recognize the people who dedicate themselves to protecting our country. Derrick is especially drawn to the IDEAL principles of Authentic Self and Learning & Growing. Living by the motto “Know yourself and seek self-improvement,” he believes that a commitment to continuous growth allows him to better connect with and support those he serves.
Jessica is a Family Support Partner with the High-Fidelity Wraparound team in Greensboro, NC. She supports families by combining professional knowledge with her lived experience to offer empathy, hope and connection. Jessica served in the U.S. Army as a Generator Mechanic and is a survivor of military sexual trauma. Her experience, though painful, drives her to serve as a voice of resilience for others. She believes in honoring the sacrifices of service members and ensuring they’re supported during and after their service. Jessica connects most with the IDEAL principle of Learning & Growing, as her team’s motto is to always embrace a growth mindset! She shares, “After being out of work for more than 15 years due to PTSD, joining Easterseals PORT Health has given me a renewed sense of purpose and a chance to serve again in a meaningful way.”
Thank you Loralin, Tim, Derrick and Jessica for your service and for reminding us all why it’s important to recognize those who serve our country.
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Easterseals PORT Health is a trustworthy, compassionate partner providing exceptional disability, behavioral health and addiction treatment services to help our neighbors live their best lives. Purpose, dedication and empathy drive our in-person and telehealth service delivery. Our diverse and inclusive 2,600 member team provides more than 10.2 million hours of meaningful support to 40,200 kids, adults and families in 11,000 home, facility and community locations across North Carolina and Virginia. Learn more at eastersealsPORT.com.
