Support Services of Virginia

08/05/2026

Warrior Wednesday – Realizing Success

This week we recognize Bonny Rose, a colleague and friend who demonstrated the heart of what it means to be part of the SSVA team.

Bonny was known for her willingness to help others, learn new skills, and support her coworkers whenever needed. She approached her work with kindness, patience, and a genuine commitment to being a team player. Colleagues describe her as someone they could count on, whether for a helping hand, a positive attitude, or a friendly smile.

What made Bonny a Warrior wasn't a single accomplishment. It was the consistency with which she showed up for others. She understood that the little things matter: helping a teammate, learning something new to support the team, and creating an environment where people felt welcomed and valued.

As we move through this week, let's take a page from Bonny's playbook:
✅ Be willing to help.
✅ Support your teammates.
✅ Continue learning and growing.
✅ Lead with kindness.
✅ Make people feel like they belong.

Thank you, Bonny, for modeling the values that make SSVA strong and for reminding us that helping others is often the most powerful thing we can do. 💙

08/04/2026

We are incredibly proud to share that our Hampton Roads team has once again been recognized as a Top Workplace! This honor is especially meaningful because it is based on feedback from our employees and reflects the culture we work hard to create every day: one built on respect, support, growth, teamwork, and a shared commitment to helping others realize their success. 💙

Want to find out what makes SSVA a Top Workplace year after year? Visit our website www.ssvainc.org and learn more about our mission, culture, and career opportunities.

08/03/2026

08/02/2026

Action Alert!

Contact your Senators before August 5th! Tell them why DSPs deserve recognition as an essential profession. Ask them to support and advance the Recognizing the Role of Direct Support Professionals Act (S. 3211).

Take Action: https://www.votervoice.net/NADSP/Campaigns/138973/Respond

07/31/2026

SSVA recently lost another valued member of our community. James was a dedicated employee who provided compassionate, reliable support to the individuals in our In-Home Program for many years. His kindness, commitment, and caring presence made a meaningful difference in the lives of those he supported and the colleagues who had the privilege of working alongside him.

James will be remembered with gratitude and will be deeply missed by the SSVA family. Our thoughts are with his loved ones during this difficult time. 💙

View James E. Powell III's obituary, send flowers and sign the guestbook.

07/29/2026

Wednesday Warrior - Realizing Success (submitted by Jill Jennings)

This week, we proudly recognize Dawn Petterson, a truly remarkable sponsor whose dedication shines in everything she does. Dawn consistently goes above and beyond for our individuals—not for praise or recognition, but because she genuinely cares. Her commitment is rooted in her belief that every person deserves the life they truly want, and she works tirelessly to help make that a reality.

Through changes, challenges, and unexpected situations, Dawn has remained steady, compassionate, and solution focused. Her mindset never wavers she will do whatever it takes to make things easier, safer, and more supportive for the individuals in her care. When someone needs a little extra help, Dawn is already there. Her communication with families, staff, and supervisors is exceptional and never goes unnoticed. She ensures everyone is informed, involved, and supported. And beyond her professionalism, Dawn brings joy and laughter wherever she goes, her presence alone brightens the room.

Outside of her work, Dawn cares for her birds and her beloved show dogs, many of whom proudly carry the title of “Winner.” Her passion, both personally and professionally, is evident in everything she touches.

As a Sponsored Residential team, we are incredibly fortunate to have Dawn as part of our family. And personally, I am grateful to call her not just a colleague, but a friend.

Thank you, Dawn, for being a true Wednesday Warrior. Your heart, dedication, and spirit make all the difference.

07/28/2026

🏄‍♀️🌊 Join SSVA at Surfers Healing! 🌊🏄‍♂️

Everyone deserves the opportunity to experience adventure, connection, and belonging. That's why SSVA is excited to be part of Surfers Healing, an amazing event that brings our community together to celebrate the strengths, abilities, and potential of people with disabilities.

Come out to cheer on the surfers, learn about this incredible program, and stop by to meet the SSVA team! We'd love to share more about how we support people with disabilities through Sponsored Residential, Community Engagement, In-Home Supports, Group Day Services, Behavioral Consultation, and more.

💙 Discover new opportunities, make connections, and be part of something truly inspiring.

We hope to see you there!

07/27/2026

🩷 Monday Motivation 🩷
Last week, our community experienced the loss of a dear friend and long term colleague. Someone who reminded us what truly matters.

In a world that often moves too fast, they took the time to appreciate the simple things—a conversation, a smile, a shared story, a moment of connection. They were genuinely curious about others, asked thoughtful questions, and cared enough to listen to the answers.

Their example reminds us that making a difference isn't always about doing something big. Often, it's about paying attention. It's about noticing people, showing kindness, and helping others feel seen, valued, and important.

As we begin this final week of July, let's honor that lesson by slowing down just enough to appreciate the people around us and the moments that make life meaningful.

Kindness leaves a legacy. Take time to notice, care, and connect. 🩷

07/22/2026

Wednesday Warrior - Realizing Success

Rae has been a dedicated member of the SSVA family for over a year, celebrating their one-year anniversary on May 29, 2026. During that time, they have continued to grow both personally and professionally, earning their Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional (QIDP) credential while serving as a Program Coordinator overseeing three residential sites.

As a retired U.S. Army veteran, Rae brings integrity, leadership, and a strong sense of commitment to everything they do. They are also working toward a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration, demonstrating their dedication to lifelong learning and providing the best possible support to the individuals and teams they serve.

When they're not at work, Rae loves spending time with the people who mean the most to them. They enjoy traveling whenever they can to visit their family, with whom they share a very close relationship. One of Rae's greatest joys is being an aunt, and they cherish every opportunity to spend time with their niece and nephew, Cailynn and Kayson. At home, Rae and their spouse, Bailey, stay busy with their two dogs and two cats, who are very much a part of the family. Rae also enjoys exploring new places, trying different cultural foods, and relaxing by playing video games with their spouse and sister.

Rae's dedication, compassion, and willingness to continue growing make them an incredible asset to SSVA. Thank you, Rae, for all that you do and for the positive impact you make every day. Congratulations on reaching your one-year milestone—we're thankful to have you on our team! 💙