VSI Executive Director Kimbal Mothershead and Assistant Director Sherry Summers were among 40 workshop managers and staff who presented their work to Missouri leaders during the Sheltered Workshops Products and Services Day at the Capitol on Tuesday, Jan. 24.

The event was organized by the Missouri Association of Sheltered Workshop Managers (MASWM) as an opportunity for state representatives, senators, and other Missouri leaders to see some of what happens in the state’s nearly 90 workshops. Mothershead also serves as Area II director for MASWM.

“It was great to have a chance to talk with our legislators and give them a better picture of what Extended Employment and Community Integration and what our Summer Work Experience looks like and how VSI meets today’s challenges for people with disabilities.,” Mothershead said.

Missouri Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe was among those who enjoyed hearing from workshop staff members about everything from packaging products to providing maintenance services at highway rest stops. Several of Missouri’s nearly 5,000 employees with disabilities were also on hand. They described their workshop efforts and how they are employed in local jobs with private companies, thanks to support from their workshop.

The event was an expansion of last year’s first post-COVID gathering. Legislators and others were impressed with the range of workshop products and services and frequently asked for details regarding how workshops partner with local businesses and even national corporations. Several employees with disabilities were on hand to explain how they enjoy their work and socializing with coworkers.

Nationally accredited and state certified, VSI has been providing employment and other services for people with disabilities for over 50 years – and serving the business community with on-demand, flexible services and programs.