A Sweet Success Story: Rayla’s Journey to Employment

National Disability Employment Awareness Month Spotlight

During National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we’re celebrating the stories that remind us why inclusive employment matters. For Rayla, employment has meant more than having a job. It’s meant building confidence, gaining independence, and finding a place where she belongs.

Rayla first enrolled in TNC Community Employment Services with a goal of finding meaningful work she would genuinely enjoy. Through hands-on support, skill-building, and encouragement, she developed the confidence needed to pursue competitive employment. That journey led her to Howdy Homemade Ice Cream, TNC Community’s social enterprise ice cream shop that opened in May 2024 to create meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Rayla serving ice cream at Howdy Homemade Ice Cream.

Finding the Right Fit

From the beginning, Rayla stood out.

“The thing that stood out to me about Rayla was her willingness to jump in and get things done,” said Kris, General Manager of Howdy Homemade. “She’s always moving.”


Today, Rayla works as a Howdy Homemade Hero, stocking, cleaning, helping customers, scooping ice cream, and making one of her favorite menu items: fresh waffle cones.

“I enjoy the people I get to work with and the customers,” Rayla said.

Rayla and Shift Lead, Sam, celebrating Howdy Homemade Ice Cream being announced as Kansas City Star’s Best Frozen Treat.

Growing in Confidence

According to her Employment Specialist, Nicole, one of Rayla’s biggest areas of growth has been confidence. When they first began working together, customer interactions felt intimidating. Through practice and experience, she became more comfortable speaking with others and taking on new responsibilities.

“She genuinely loves having a job and feels a real sense of accomplishment and purpose from it,” Nicole said.

That growth extends beyond the workplace. Rayla says having a job has helped her feel “like a more responsible adult” while building independence and money-management skills.

The Power of Opportunity

Rayla’s story reflects the broader impact of employment services.

“Everyone deserves the opportunity to work, contribute, feel needed, and have a purpose,” Nicole said.

As we recognize National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Rayla’s journey serves as a reminder that when people are given the opportunity and support to succeed, they don’t just find employment. They discover confidence, purpose, and belonging.

At TNC Community, we’re proud to create those opportunities through Employment Services and Howdy Homemade, where individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities can build meaningful careers, develop new skills, and thrive in inclusive workplaces.

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