When we first shared Marshall’s story, it was about a new beginning.
After spending time living in a small hotel room where simply navigating in his wheelchair was a daily struggle, Marshall moved into a spacious, accessible apartment with the help of Mays Mission for the Handicapped. It was a life-changing moment that gave him the freedom to move safely, independently, and with dignity.
Soon after moving in, Marshall reached out to us with another challenge. Following a stroke that left him with limited mobility on one side of his body, he needed the controller on his power wheelchair moved so he could operate it more comfortably. We were happy to make the adjustment.
That evening, Marshall sent us a text message that none of us will ever forget.
“I rode my powerchair to church last night, and my chair was so much easier to ride since you guys fixed my controller from the right side to the left side. Thanks so much for being my friend.”
Those simple words reminded us that sometimes the smallest acts of service create the biggest changes in someone’s life.
But Marshall’s story didn’t end there.
Today, Marshall is a valued member of the Mays Mission team.
Despite having significant mobility limitations, Marshall comes to work with determination, a positive attitude, and a strong work ethic. Every day, he proves something our founder, E.W. Mays, believed more than fifty years ago:
“It’s Ability, Not Disability, that counts!”
Marshall isn’t defined by what he cannot do. He’s recognized for what he can do.
Watching him grow in confidence has been one of the greatest rewards for our staff. His work is meaningful, his contributions matter, and he reminds all of us that opportunity can change a life just as much as accessibility can.
Too often, individuals with disabilities are underestimated. They are overlooked for employment, not because they lack talent or determination, but because people see limitations before they see potential.
At Mays Mission, we believe every person deserves the opportunity to contribute, to work with purpose, and to experience the dignity that meaningful employment provides.
Marshall’s journey—from a cramped hotel room, to an accessible home, to becoming a successful employee—is proof of what can happen when a community chooses to invest in people instead of focusing on obstacles.
His story isn’t just about receiving help.
It’s about gaining independence.
It’s about finding purpose.
It’s about belonging.
Most importantly, it’s about proving that disability does not define a person’s value or their ability to make a difference.
To everyone who supports Mays Mission, thank you. Your generosity doesn’t simply provide wheelchairs, accessible housing, or adaptive equipment. It opens doors to opportunity, independence, friendship, and hope.
Marshall’s story is still being written, and we can’t wait to see what the next chapter holds.
Because at Mays Mission, we don’t just believe in changing lives.
We believe in empowering people to live them to the fullest.
Talk to employers in your area and encourage them to hire individuals with disabilities
