When Crystal Shank first came to Global Connections to Employment (GCE) through Vocational Rehabilitation, she was looking for an opportunity. Ten years later, she’s built a career, developed her skill set and is helping others see what’s possible for themselves.

Crystal has served in a variety of roles across LifeView Group—GCE’s nonprofit parent company. She began as an on-the-job training (OJT) participant before moving into part-time and eventually full-time employment. Today, she serves as the e-commerce promotions coordinator for GCE Designs, where she combines creativity, technical expertise and a passion for helping others succeed.

Along the way, she gained experience as an employment services assistant and later on LifeView Group’s benefits team, steadily building the skills and confidence that would shape her future.

“I didn’t know what it was like to work in a professional setting. Just looking at myself then to now, I have gained knowledge, tools and was able to build this platform that I can pass on to others.”

Today, Crystal works on creating web stores for GCE Designs customers, often taking a project from concept to completion. The role allows her to combine technical and creative skills while pursuing her passion for technology.

Her professional growth extends beyond the workplace. Crystal earned her associate degree from Pensacola State College and will begin studying software development at the University of West Florida this fall.

Throughout her journey, she credits her coworkers and leaders for creating an environment where she feels supported and encouraged to grow.

“Jenni and Mike are so sweet to me. They’re very motivating, and they just make me feel like I can do whatever I want to do. As far as the entire team, I just love the energy,” she said. “LifeView Group is like family. They really care about your well-being in your professional role, as well as your personal. They really want to see you grow.”

Crystal was born with cerebral palsy, but she has never allowed challenges to define her potential or stop her from living her life.

“It affects my lower limbs, so it affects my mobility. However, I don’t let that stop me from living life,” she said. “One of my passions in life is to travel and see the world and now that I have the tools to do that, I try to live life to my fullest potential. I recently traveled to Bali all by myself.”

For Crystal, the most rewarding part of her work goes beyond building web stores. She uses her experiences to inspire and encourage others.

“I like to build people up because I know what it’s like to have doors closed on you,” she said. “Aside from building the stores, the most rewarding and fulfilling thing is just seeing people’s faces.”

From working towards her degree and traveling the world to building a career in ecommerce and uplifting others, Crystal’s story is a testament to what can happen when determination meets opportunity. A decade after joining our nonprofit family of companies, she continues to embrace new challenges while inspiring those around her to do the same.

To support the work of GCE Designs team members like Crystal, place an order with GCE Designs or get involved.