Alvis, Inc.

10/13/2026

Supporting Survivors, Building Connections

Last week, Alvis was proud to participate in the Columbus Start Anew Clinic, hosted by Jones Day , this was an event that connects survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, and sexual abuse with resources that support healing, stability, and independence. The clinic brought together community organizations dedicated to helping individuals build brighter futures.

Representing Alvis were Rodger Roddy, Program Manager for EDGE, HOPES, and Care Coordination, Makesha West, Clinical Director of Amethyst and Recovery Housing, and members of their teams. Together, they connected with attendees, shared information about Alvis programs and services, and provided resources to individuals seeking support, recovery, housing, and other community-based services.

We are grateful for opportunities to collaborate with community partners and ensure that individuals know help, hope, and support are available. Thank you to the Start Anew Project for bringing organizations together to make a meaningful impact in our community.

10/12/2026

National Disability Employment Awareness Month Spotlight: Jerry

Since starting his job at Stella a few months ago, Jerry has been focused on growth both at work and in his personal life.

Jerry says employment has taught him patience and the importance of communication. While opening up to others hasn't always come naturally, his role requires him to work closely with teammates and supervisors to get the job done.

He's also proud of the progress he's made in managing his emotions, using coping skills, and leaning on the support and accountability of those around him.

One lesson guides Jerry every day: seeking wisdom in every opportunity.

10/11/2026

Congratulations to Denise Robinson, President & CEO of Alvis, on being named the recipient of The Ohio State University's 2026 Archie M. Griffin Professional Achievement Award.

This prestigious award is presented annually to one Ohio State alumnus whose career accomplishments and contributions to their profession exemplify excellence, leadership, and impact.

For more than four decades, Denise has dedicated her career to helping individuals, families, and communities build brighter futures. From expanding Alvis' reach across Ohio to championing evidence-based programming and second chances, her leadership has touched thousands of lives through reentry services, behavioral health treatment, workforce development, family reunification, recovery housing, and support for individuals with developmental disabilities.

As Denise often reminds us, people are more than the labels placed upon them. Her unwavering belief in the potential of every person continues to shape the mission of Alvis and inspire all of us who have the privilege of working alongside her.

Please join us in congratulating Denise on this well-deserved honor. ❤️

https://www.osu.edu/alumni/about/ohio-state-alumni-awards/2026-alumni-awards-honorees/2026-archie-m-griffin-professional

10/10/2026

10/08/2026

It was a week full of learning, creativity, and celebration at HYPE! 🎉📚🎨

We kicked things off by celebrating several of our kiddos' birthdays with cupcakes, games, and a birthday-themed puzzle challenge that encouraged teamwork and problem-solving.

The fun continued with a sight word scavenger hunt, where the kids worked together to find hidden words, read them aloud, and use them in sentences. Activities like these help strengthen literacy skills while making learning exciting and engaging.

To wrap up the week, the kiddos put their creativity to work by creating mosaic art pieces inspired by meaningful symbols. Along the way, they learned about the stories and meanings behind the symbols while building artistic, fine motor, and critical thinking skills.

At HYPE, every activity is designed to help children learn, grow, and thrive while having fun with their peers. We are proud of the enthusiasm, creativity, and teamwork our kiddos demonstrated all week long!

10/07/2026

10/07/2026

National Disability Employment Awareness Month reminds us that employment can be a powerful pathway to independence, confidence, and community inclusion.

Meet Landon, a resident at 624 and is on the work crew at 1991. For Landon, having a job is more than earning a paycheck. It's an opportunity to work, earn money, and get out into the community doing something meaningful.

Landon says employment is helping him work toward greater independence and his goal of eventually living on his own. He takes pride in the progress he is making and enjoys sharing his work experiences with his family. His grandparents are especially proud of the contributions he is making through his job and in the community.

In addition to working, Landon volunteers at a local food pantry, further demonstrating his commitment to helping others.

We're proud of Landon and the dedication he brings each day. His story is a great example of how meaningful employment can create opportunities for growth, self-confidence, and a more independent future.

10/06/2026

Meet Durel Demostenes, Program Director of Oasis Recovery!

At Alvis, Oasis Recovery provides support for men on their recovery journey, helping individuals build stability, strengthen life skills, pursue employment and housing goals, and create a foundation for long-term success. Recovery is about more than overcoming challenges. It is about creating opportunities, rebuilding confidence, and moving toward a brighter future.

We're excited to welcome Durel Demostenes as the new Program Director of Oasis. Born and raised in New York City, Durel is a proud Afro-Latino with a passion for empowering others through education, leadership, and community development. He holds a bachelor's degree in psychology and an MBA in Organizational Leadership, and his career has included work in higher education, corrections, workforce development, adult learning, training development, and college instruction.

When asked why he chose Alvis, Durel shared, "Providing real second chances, strong support systems, and opportunities for growth is work I'm deeply passionate about, and I'm excited to contribute to that impact."

Outside of work, Durel enjoys spending time with his wife, children, and their puppy, Bear. You can also find him at the gym, searching for a great pizza spot, or relaxing at home with a good documentary.

Please join us in welcoming Durel to the Alvis team!

10/01/2026

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time to recognize the value, talent, and contributions people with disabilities bring to our workplaces, communities, and economy. This year's theme, "Celebrating Value and Talent," highlights the importance of creating opportunities where everyone can learn, grow, work, and thrive.

At Alvis, our Developmental Disabilities (DD) Program has been at the heart of our mission from the very beginning. What started as a 15-bed Intermediate Care Facility has grown to serve up to 60 individuals through services designed to promote independence, community connection, and personal growth. Our programs support adult men with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping them build skills, achieve goals, and create meaningful lives.

The individuals we serve are more than their diagnoses. They are future business owners, employees, students, travelers, mentors, and community members with dreams and ambitions of their own. Through individualized support, participants learn daily living skills, strengthen communication and workplace readiness, build confidence, pursue hobbies and interests, and become more connected to their communities. Our goal is simple: to help each person grow in independence while living a life filled with opportunity, purpose, and belonging.

Throughout October, we'll be sharing stories that highlight the accomplishments, talents, and successes of the individuals in our DD Program and the impact employment, community involvement, and support can have on building better futures.

09/30/2026

"Your past does not define your future."

Rondale's journey is one of resilience, determination, and transformation. From childhood adversity and incarceration to earning his CDL, building a successful career, and creating a better future for his family, his story is a powerful reminder of what can happen when hard work meets opportunity and support.
Today, Rondale is thriving, providing for his three sons, and proving that second chances can change lives.

Read his full story here: https://alvis180.org/blog/from-adversity-to-achievement-rondales-journey-of-resilience-growth-and-success/