Haywood Vocational Opportunities

09/07/2026

Today we celebrate hard work and the people behind it. Happy Labor Day from HVO ❣️

09/04/2026

✨The Heart of HVO: Jay 💙✨

For the past four months, Jay has been leading HVO as our President, bringing a strong commitment to our mission and the people at the heart of everything we do.

When asked what he is most looking forward to, Jay shared that he wants to advance HVO’s mission to “empower all individuals with disabilities to become independent and lead successful lives as they define it for themselves.”

What makes Jay proud to be part of HVO is the impact of our work, “transforming lives by creating equitable employment opportunities, fostering skill development, and enabling individuals to become independent, productive, and integrated members of the workforce and community.”

Looking ahead, Jay’s number one goal is for the manufacturing side of HVO to fully support the mission side of the organization, allowing donations to be focused on the enrichment, growth, and lives of our participants. He also hopes more people throughout our community will learn about HVO and the difference we make every day.

Outside of HVO, Jay enjoys golf, spending time with his wife and pets, and tackling the occasional home project. His friends have even given him the nickname “Mr. Home Depot”because, as Jay says, “If you are going to do a project, you have to have the right tools.” 🛠️

Jay summed up what HVO means to him perfectly: “What we do every day on the program side of the business is truly rewarding. Everyone at HVO is focused on our mission to help individuals advance and grow.”

We’re proud to have Jay leading HVO and look forward to all that we will accomplish together. 💙

09/01/2026

We’re proud to be part of Day of Caring! 💙
Thank you United Way of Haywood County for giving our team the opportunity to connect, serve, and make a difference together.

08/28/2026

✨ The Heart of HVO: Chad ✨💙

Chad has been part of HVO for 18 years and truly enjoys his time here. He especially enjoys being on the production floor and taking part in vocational training.

Chad is friendly, loves to joke around, and is always ready for a good time. Outside of working, he enjoys a good game of bowling and is a big Dallas Cowboys fan! 🏈🎳

We’re so glad Chad is part of HVO! 💙

08/21/2026

✨The Heart of HVO: Elijah 💙✨

Elijah is a bright, outgoing, and friendly part of the HVO community. He has been with HVO for several years and truly loves being here. He enjoys bowling almost every weekend, participating in Special Olympics, volunteering, and staying active in the community.

Elijah is a big fan of Dollywood, Dolly Parton, and Elvis Presley. He also enjoys making art, writing, and spending time with the people he cares about. You may recognize him from our annual Christmas play, where he loves being involved.

Elijah brings so much joy and energy to HVO!

08/21/2026

The NC State Highway Patrol is at Belk in Waynesville for a 3-day event, Cops on Top, supporting Special Olympics. Stop by, say hello, and make a donation if you can!

A big thank you to the law enforcement officers and firefighters giving their time to support such a meaningful cause.

Special Olympics is especially close to our hearts at HVO, with so many of our guys proudly taking part. 💙🏅

08/18/2026

🌼 Wildflowers, sunshine, and a beautiful morning at the Giving Garden.

08/14/2026

✨The Heart of HVO: Tyler 💙✨

Tyler has been part of the HVO family since 2008. His favorite part of the day is working on the production floor. Tyler is a hard worker who takes pride in what he does and loves earning his own money.

Tyler is very friendly and always smiling, bringing a positive attitude and good energy wherever he goes. When he isn’t working, he enjoys going to church, spending time with his twin brother and other brother, and exploring town to try new restaurants. Tyler also has a passion for art and is incredibly talented and creative!

We’re so happy Tyler is a part of the HVO family! 💙

08/10/2026

Please see below for information regarding Rick’s arrangements. Our thoughts are with everyone during this difficult time. ❤️

Friends-
Please join us as we gather to remember and celebrate our friend Anthony Richard “Rick” Cira and the joy, laughter, music, and friendship he brought to our community.

Saturday, August 22 at 2:00 p.m.
Pinnacle Church
415 Fibreville St.
Canton, NC 28716

Rick loved people, music, dancing, and, of course, a little sparkle. This will be a time for Rick’s friends, family, and community to share stories, laugh, remember, and celebrate his life together.

We’d also love for you to help us fill the room with memories and messages for Rick.

Before you come, make a heart, sign, or note with something you’d like us to remember about him. It might be a favorite memory, something you loved about Rick, something that made you laugh, or simply a few words about what his friendship meant to you.

Bring it with you, and together we’ll create a collection of messages from the many people whose lives Rick touched.

Rick was one of us. He was part of our community, part of our stories, and part of our lives. We invite you to join us as we celebrate his life.

08/08/2026

Our hearts are heavy. ❤️ Rick will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Sending love and prayers during this difficult time. 🕊️