Emory Valley Center

02/20/2026

Take a moment to catch up on all the great things happening at Emory Valley Center by checking out our February Community Newsletter!

This month’s edition is filled with highlights from recent events, exciting updates, and stories that showcase the impact our team is making across the communities we serve. From special visits and advocacy efforts to celebrations and program updates, there’s so much to be proud of.

We’re grateful for the continued support of our families, community partners, and friends. Click the link, take a read, and stay connected with all that’s happening at EVC!

https://www.emoryvalleycenter.org/wp-content/uploads/Feb-26-Community-Newsletter-Final-2.pdf

02/19/2026

Our Little Learning Lab team had an incredible time visiting Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)!

We are so grateful for the opportunity to tour Oak Ridge National Laboratory and experience firsthand the innovative work happening right here in our community. Our staff had so much fun exploring the campus, learning about cutting-edge research, and seeing so many amazing things up close.

It was an inspiring day filled with discovery, conversation, and new ideas we can carry back to the Little Learning Lab. Opportunities like this help us continue growing, learning, and bringing fresh excitement into our classrooms.

Thank you, ORNL, for such a memorable and educational experience!

02/18/2026

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to WATE 6 On Your Side for their continued support of Emory Valley Center.

We are grateful for your partnership and your commitment to keeping our community informed and connected. Thank you for helping us spread awareness and celebrate the incredible work happening every day at Emory Valley Center!

02/16/2026

Today we celebrate Presidents’ Day, honoring the leaders who have shaped the history and future of the United States.

This day is a reminder of the values that unite us—leadership, service, perseverance, and a commitment to building stronger communities for all. As we reflect on the contributions of past presidents, we also look ahead with hope and dedication to continuing the important work of serving and supporting those in our community.

Wishing everyone a safe and meaningful Presidents’ Day!

02/13/2026

Our Valentine’s Day Mixer was filled with joy and celebration at Emory Valley Center today!💕

We had such a wonderful time celebrating together. From creating heartfelt valentines to enjoying sweet treats and spending time on the dance floor, the afternoon was filled with smiles, laughter, and connection.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the day so special. Moments like these remind us how important community, friendship, and celebration are to the people we support and our entire Emory Valley family.

02/12/2026

🎥 Check Out This Month’s Advocacy Video Featuring Mel Stanley!

This month, Emory Valley’s Advocacy Specialist, Mel Stanley, shares a powerful message about the vital role families play in advocacy. Families are often the strongest voices for inclusion, opportunity, and meaningful change—and their support makes a lasting impact.

In this inspiring video, Mel highlights how advocacy begins at home and grows through community, encouraging everyone to use their voice to make a difference.

Take a moment to watch, be inspired, and don’t forget to like and share to help spread the message!

02/11/2026

Austin is our very first MAPs participant to graduate from the program! He successfully completed 8 out of 11 milestones and now qualifies for $4,000 to be deposited into his ABLE account — an incredible achievement.

Throughout the program, Austin has gained so much independence — from traveling on his own, to cooking for himself, to living independently with a roommate. His growth has been inspiring to watch, and this is just the beginning of what he will accomplish.

Congratulations, Austin! All of us at Emory Valley are so proud of you and your achievements👏

02/06/2026

We’re Hiring at Emory Valley Center!

Join a team where your work truly matters. At Emory Valley Center, you can make a meaningful impact every day by supporting individuals in reaching their fullest potential. We’re searching for compassionate, dedicated professionals to join our mission-driven team — and we’re offering a $1,000 sign-on bonus for all Direct Support Professional (DSP) positions!

If you're ready to begin a rewarding career with purpose, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today:
https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/All/ff0f0f28-1e08-49df-920d-3ca8b4d8799c/Emory-Valley-Center-Inc
For more information, contact our HR Department:
Kim Jeffers-Whitaker
kim.jeffers-whitaker@evcmail.org

02/05/2026

This February, we proudly recognize Black History Month—a time to honor and celebrate the rich history, culture, achievements, and lasting impact of the Black community on our society and the world around us.

We also reflect on the resilience, strength, and leadership of Black voices—past and present—and reaffirm our commitment to learning, listening, and uplifting stories that deserve recognition every day.

At Emory Valley Center, we value inclusion, respect, and the diversity that strengthens our community. 💚

Join us as we celebrate Black history—not only this month, but year-round.

02/04/2026

Tell Congress: Increase the SSI Asset Limit!

SSI helps millions of people with disabilities afford basic needs—but outdated rules keep people in poverty. The current SSI asset limit hasn’t changed since 1989, allowing just $2,000 in savings for individuals and $3,000 for couples.

The SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act would raise those limits to $10,000 for individuals and $20,000 for couples—finally allowing people to save without penalty.

Take action: Urge your Member of Congress to co-sponsor this bipartisan bill and support people with disabilities. 💚

SSI asset limits haven't been raised since 1989!

02/03/2026

💚 Now Hiring at Emory Valley Center! 💚

Want a career that truly matters? At Emory Valley Center, every day is an opportunity to make a real difference. Our team is dedicated to supporting individuals and families as they reach their fullest potential—and we’d love for you to join us.

✨ Current Openings:
• Direct Support Professional (Full-Time, Part-Time & Peak Shifts)
• Floater – Learning Center
• Substitute Teacher
• Assistant Teacher
• Teacher
• Home Manager
• Independence and Innovation Specialist
• Accounts Payable Clerk

When you join Emory Valley Center, you’re not just getting a job—you’re building a meaningful career filled with purpose, growth, and heart.

📲 Ready to make an impact? Apply today and help us create brighter futures together.
👉 To apply, please visit our website: https://recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/All/ff0f0f28-1e08-49df-920d-3ca8b4d8799c/Emory-Valley-Center-Inc

01/30/2026

Karen and Chase from Emory Valley Center’s Early Intervention Team attended the East Tennessee Council on Children and Youth (ETCCY) Legislative Lunch on the River today.

They had several meaningful conversations with Senator Becky Massey (Knox), Senator Sam McKenzie (Knox), Senator Blackburn’s East Tennessee Field Director, and Mayor Joe Brooks (Claiborne County). The program also included remarks from Glenn Jacobs and Judge Irwin.

It was a great opportunity to represent EVC and engage with key leaders on issues impacting children and families across our region. 💚