Saturday was a cloudy overcast day outside of Rowan Vocational Opportunities, Inc., but it did not dampen the spirits of the people gathered to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the company’s founding. There was lots of food, fun and reminiscing about the depths and lengths in which the agency has progressed.
Since opening in 1966, the agency has provided meaningful experiences, opportunities and training for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities to educate, participate and receive life skills and vocational training.
“The agency was initially named the ‘Rowan Vocational Workshop’ when it opened at the old Ellis School,” said Gary Yelton, executive director at RVO/CVO, as he provided historical highlights of the last six decades.
He went on to say, “Today’s celebration exemplifies our longevity, resilience and hard work that has sustained us to make a positive impact on our surrounding community and those we serve. We are thankful to have this opportunity to recognize and show our appreciation to our consumers, staff, contributors, stakeholders and volunteers alike.”
“From the original 18 consumers and five staff members who started at Ellis School, we have been able to consistently pursue our original mission and purpose,” Yelton said.
With growth came the move to the former Shuford School in Granite Quarry, after moving to the former Lincoln Elementary School on the east side of Salisbury. With continued growth, former Executive Director, Terry Osborne, worked with the Rowan County Commission, Salisbury City Council and Rowan County Board of Education to acquire the former Rowan County Health Department, where the agency is currently located at 2728 Old Concord Road.
Yelton also expressed his thanks to many individuals, civic organizations, parents and donors who wished to remain anonymous.
Dr. Jill Smith, chairperson of the RVO/CVO Board of Directors, stated, “We recognize that as we celebrate, we wouldn’t be where we are without our consumers, dedicated staff, volunteers and other supporters who have stepped up over the years.”
Other board members in attendance were Nancy Collins, Ed Lanear and Brian Rucker.
Yelton then expressed special thanks to the late community leaders Ralph and Ann Ketner for their generous gift of $1 million. Special recognition was also extended to Bob Loeblein, who has been honored as a lifetime Board Member.
In 2010, Cabarrus Vocational Opportunities was opened to serve individuals from Cabarrus County. Gary Elmore, operations manager at CVO, and recently retired Skip Kraft were also in attendance.
Gaynelle Redwine, who recently retired after 50 years of service to the agency, flashed her radiant smile throughout the day with her various stories about the agency, its growth and impact on the lives of so many people.
Dr. Christine Lynn, executive director of the Rowan Chamber of Commerce, presented a ribbon that was cut. Lynn is married to RVO/CVO Sales and Marketing Director Denver Lynn. Production Manager Robbi Russell, and her husband, Steve, presented a 60-year banner for display.
