A single referral can change everything.
In November, Easterseals Midwest Employment Services in Joplin began receiving referrals from Vocational Rehabilitation, including its first from southeast Kansas. What began as one simple connection is quickly becoming a regional network spanning southwest Missouri and into a neighboring state.
Access is expanding. Employers are responding.
Individualized Support and Measurable Results
Under the leadership of Employment Services Director Marion Loveless, the Joplin team is delivering workforce development services designed to support both job seekers and employers.
From the moment someone says, “I want to work,” the process begins. Support includes career exploration, interview preparation, job matching, on-site coaching, and follow-along services that continue up to a year after hire. It is steady, structured, and built for retention.
As Marion recently shared during her appearance on KSN 16's Living Well, placements are intentional, sustainable, and built around real workforce needs..
“It builds their self-esteem,” Marion said. “They get to be part of their community and make their own money.”
On the sales floor, in a stockroom, and behind the counter, confidence grows in real time. It’s a paycheck earned, a name on a schedule, and a uniform worn with pride. And employers gain reliable, prepared team members.
Technology That Strengthens Communication and Readiness
Growth also brings innovation. The Joplin team recently integrated assistive technology into daily services, including an iPad equipped with a communication app that converts spoken words into large on-screen text, allowing staff to communicate clearly with individuals who are hearing impaired. Conversations move faster and clarity replaces confusion.
For younger participants with shorter attention spans, interactive interview-preparation apps transform practice into engagement. Through guided simulations and game-based learning, individuals rehearse mock interviews, practice appropriate workplace attire, and build confidence in ways that feel natural.
They're simple tools that make communication clearer and preparation stronger. For employers, that preparation shows.
A Rapidly Expanding Team
The program's growth is also visible in staffing. Tabitha Ryan will step into the role of Employment Services Manager on March 9, reflecting the strength and stability of the expanding program. Three additional Employment Specialists have also joined the team, which is a clear signal that demand is increasing and capacity is scaling to meet it.
With growth comes infrastructure, leadership depth, and readiness for new employer partnerships across the region. This is acceleration.
A Regional Milestone
Every expansion has a beginning. This one started with a referral.
And now, awareness is increasing, businesses are engaging, and opportunities are multiplying. What started as a foothold is becoming a foundation.
Partner With Us
Workforce development succeeds through partnership. Easterseals Midwest provides ongoing coaching and consultation for both the individuals and the employers. Questions are answered, adjustments are made, and retention is protected.
If your business is seeking reliable employees and long-term workforce solutions in Joplin or southeast Kansas, call 417-781-3616 to start the conversation. Opportunity grows one partnership at a time.
