VCU RRTC

In this webcast, you will find out how despair was replaced with hope when Ray Steffy learned about self-employment as an option for his son Joe. Ray and Joe share how the family researched the business and developed a business plan. Ray talks about how they explored the idea of giving Joe the opportunity to own his own business while he learned to develop a good work ethic, despite "professionals" telling them that Joe could not work.

In this webcast, you will find out how despair was replaced with hope when Ray Steffy learned about self-employment as an option for his son Joe. Joe has multiple complex developmental disabilities. Ray purchased used, kettle corn equipment and began working with Joe. In October 2000, they began producing and selling popcorn on weekends when Joe was 15. In April 2005, Joe became the owner of the Poppin Joe's Kettle Korn. Joe is directly involved with the operation of the kettle corn business. He knows the popping process and has mastered all skills of the operation. Selling is the present task Joe is working on. Ray and Joe share how the family researched the business and developed a business plan. Ray talks about how they explored the idea of giving Joe the opportunity to own his own business while he learned to develop a good work ethic, despite "professionals" telling them that Joe could not work.