The Access Program Expands Opportunity Through Purpose-Driven Employment

In Cookeville and throughout the Upper Cumberland region, The Access Program has built its reputation on a simple but far-reaching belief: individuals with intellectual disabilities deserve dignity, opportunity, and strong community support. As an Empower Upper Cumberland Certified Employer, the organization is extending that philosophy beyond those it serves to the workforce it cultivates.

Founded to provide advocacy, residential services, and daily support for individuals with intellectual disabilities, The Access Program operates at the intersection of care and community engagement. Gary Stover, the organization’s executive director, describes the mission as both practical and deeply personal. The work, he emphasizes, is not simply about meeting needs but about creating lives rooted in independence, respect, and inclusion.

That commitment is reflected in the experiences of the employees themselves. Tracy Hawks, who has grown professionally within the organization, represents a culture where development and advancement are encouraged rather than incidental. Her trajectory underscores how Access invests in its staff as long-term partners in its mission rather than short-term labor.

Healthcare and well-being remain central to the organization’s operations. Vicky Stevens Haley, who oversees healthcare needs, ensures that clients receive consistent, attentive care while employees are supported in navigating the complex responsibilities that accompany this work. Her role highlights the careful balance Access maintains between compassion and professionalism.

For many employees, the appeal of The Access Program lies in its flexibility and understanding. Jennifer Brown points to scheduling accommodations as a key benefit, particularly for workers balancing family responsibilities or other commitments. This adaptability reflects the organization’s broader philosophy that effective care begins with a supported workforce.

As an Empower Certified Employer, The Access Program aligns with regional efforts to strengthen economic mobility and inclusive employment. By fostering a workplace grounded in empathy, advocacy, and opportunity, the organization demonstrates how social impact and workforce development can reinforce one another. For those seeking meaningful careers rooted in service, Access stands as both an employer and a calling.

Watch the hiring video here:
https://www.ucwork.org/employerspotlights/v/the-access-program