Shelinda Mahone Celebrates 25 years with Easterseals Central Alabama

 

Special to Easterseals Central Alabama
By Rachel Hughes

Workforce Development Director Shelinda Mahone, who manages a variety of programs at Easterseals Central Alabama that focus on guiding individuals with disabilities toward meaningful employment and independence, is celebrating 25 years of employment with Easterseals Central Alabama in 2026.

As Workforce Development Director, Mahone currently oversees four employees—two  full-time employment specialists, a full-time transition specialist who works with local schools, and a part-time transition staff member.

Mahone first connected with Easterseals Central Alabama through an internship opportunity. “I remember seeing the building and thinking how nice it looked. When I came inside, I realized there was so much great work happening here,” she recalls. However, her journey took a sudden turn shortly after that — she was in a serious car accident that left her temporarily unable to walk.

“Doctors told my parents I had a 40 percent chance of walking again,” Mahone recalls. “But I was determined. When I came back, I was on a walker. I thought, if I can overcome this, maybe I can inspire others to deal with their own challenges.”

That determination became the foundation of a career that has now spanned more than 25 years.

Mahone has developed multiple initiatives to support individuals in employment readiness. One of her proudest accomplishments is the Enhanced Program, which she helped design.

“The Enhanced Program had three parts,” she explains. “We start with a vocational assessment, then work on job readiness and applications, and finally provide 100 hours of paid work experience.”

The results spoke volumes; 8 out of 10 participants in the first session were hired. “We wanted to make sure participants understood not just how to do the work but also soft skills like being punctual, communicating with supervisors, and staying safe,” she says.

Mahone’s leadership style blends structure with empathy. She frequently meets with staff and counselors from the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS) and local career centers to ensure open communication, collaboration and innovation.

“Keeping those relationships strong is key,” she says. “Even if we can’t meet in person, we pick up the phone and talk about what’s working and what’s not.”

Her team also conducts quarterly quality reviews to maintain compliance and program effectiveness.

“My dad always told me, ‘If you’re going to do something, do it right,’” she adds. “That’s how I approach my work, thoroughly and with care.”

For Mahone, the most rewarding part of her work is seeing individuals exceed expectations. “I remember one client who was considered very limited,” she shares. “We placed her at the Chantilly Walmart. By the time she left, she was operating a register. That’s the kind of transformation that keeps me going.”

Sometimes, the changes are quieter but just as powerful. She recounts helping a shy young woman find work in a nursing home after discovering her passion for helping others. Before starting our program, she was quite reserved, but we helped her gain confidence.  Despite facing health challenges, she can work part-time and is thriving.

Mahone acknowledges that challenges remain, particularly with access to transportation. Still, she remains optimistic. “Everybody can do something,” she emphasizes. “We just have to find out what that something is.”

Mahone encourages everyone to follow Easterseals Central Alabama on Facebook, attend fundraisers, and spread the word about the organization’s mission in order to grow awareness and community involvement,

“Community support makes all the difference,” Mahone says. “It helps us open more doors for people who just need that chance.”

With her warmth, determination and leadership, Shelinda Mahone continues to strengthen the bridge between ability and opportunity. Whether she’s mentoring a new employee, developing programs, or cheering for a client’s success, she represents the heart of Easterseals Central Alabama’ mission — empowering individuals to live, learn, work and play in their communities.