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ommon: expertise, experience, and most importantly, altruism. Diagnosed with epilepsy at 30 years old, he\u2019s jumped over hurdles, proving that a disability doesn\u2019t define someone as being incapable. <\/span>\u201cLike those I\u2019ve mentored, I, too, know the challenges. But by rising above them and learning strategies, we can achieve our goals.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\nAs a civilian, James Spencer supports Hire Heroes USA clients who are challenged by injury, physical disability, and mental complications (PTSD).\u00a0 James, too, has struggled\u2014facing rejection and unemployment\u2014yet refuses to concede defeat. As a role model for those with disabilities, he\u2019s proven that self-respect and perseverance are key.<\/span><\/p>\n Hire Heroes clients benefit from James\u2019 experience as a successful owner of now-defunct Montgomery Ward franchise and 25 years in career counseling, where he prepared professionals with disabilities for the job search and successful careers.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cMy neurological disorder and subsequent unemployment discouraged me, but my friend told me that I should become a <\/span><\/i>rehabilitation services\/administrator.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n While preparing for a double Masters in <\/span>Rehabilitation Administration and Rehabilitation Job Services, James and a fellow grad student were approached by Human Resources\/Disability Services to design a program to help graduates with disabilities find employment. James coaches the same approach to career goal-setting to veterans and their spouses by guiding them through a four-step process: locate job opportunities, create strong resumes, prepare for and conduct interviews, and design a record system for tracking interview results.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cMy friendships with veterans who had been injured and were experiencing the same problems in the job led me to Hire Heroes USA. Retired, I looked for a respected nonprofit that would allow me to use my skills to serve disabled veterans.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n \u201cVolunteering has also benefited me because Hire Heroes USA staff\/others show me how to work around my disability that often gets in the way of interacting with those I mentor. Hire Heroes USA members continue to offer me opportunities to apply my skills.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n Many attest to James\u2019 sharing his knowledge, explanations, and most important, empathy:<\/span><\/p>\n “I liked the extra detail in his explanations. His teaching of concepts to think of REALLY helped. As with all other Hire Heroes personnel, he did not just tell; he taught and educated me. I feel lots more comfortable tailoring my resumes for current situations and future ones.” -Mark E., U.S. Army<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n James is rewarded multifold because by interacting with <\/span>veterans, he\u2019s helping those who deserve assistance. Hire Heroes USA is grateful for his support and the message he instills: <\/span>\u201cYou have marketable skills that will enable you to succeed. Don\u2019t let your disability undermine your ability.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n