2. Vocational Rehabilitation
3. Consumer Success Stories
4. Willow's Story

From Florida to the Driftless: How DVR Helped One Wisconsinite Build a Digital Career

After relocating from Florida to Wisconsin's Driftless region, Willow Hemlock says they now are finally doing what they love – without compromise.

Willow, 35, moved to western Wisconsin seeking political safety and better access to medical care. With a major medical facility nearby, La Crosse County felt like the right place to start fresh.

"Moving was an uphill battle, but once we got here, the difference in care has been night and day," Willow said.

Soon after arriving in Wisconsin, Willow connected with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) to address employment challenges related to executive functioning, which can affect organization, focus and task management. Working with DVR counselor Keila Ryan and partner agency Aptiv, Willow developed an individualized plan for employment designed to support a successful job search.

Technology quickly emerged as a key strength. A self-described "child of the '90s," Willow had been teaching themselves digital skills since childhood – from basic website coding and design to video editing and social media content.

With DVR's support, Willow channeled those skills into a career in digital engagement, now managing social media and content creation for both the Viroqua Public Market and Dragonfly Retreat.

Finding the right fit

At the Viroqua Public Market, Willow's role grew through networking, relationship-building and a genuine interest in supporting local vendors.

"A big part of my success…has come from networking, asking questions, building rapport, and genuinely caring about people and their businesses," Willow said.

DVR supported a paid trial work period at the market, giving both Willow and the employer time to ensure the position was a good fit. DVR also helped cover the cost of work-appropriate clothing and footwear.

Today, Willow creates daily social media content, produces photo and video promotions and collaborates with more than 100 local vendors.

Growing into the role

Willow also works with Dragonfly Retreat, a craft-focused retreat center, where they are helping build the business’s digital presence from the ground up

When they started, Willow explained there was almost no footage. "Now I am filming events, classes, and walking tours. This year is when everything really begins to roll out."

Willow credits supportive management at both workplaces for their success and growth.

"Creativity does not feel like work when you have bosses who fully support and trust your creative process," Willow said. "I work best in hybrid roles, which both employers support. Most days start with a hot coffee..."

Looking ahead

Outside of work, Willow enjoys baking, learning magic tricks, antiquing, and creating YouTube videos about travel and nostalgia. One long-term dream includes opening a brick-and-mortar magic shop in the La Crosse area.

"Being disabled in today’s job market can mean being told "no" simply because of accommodations," Willow said. "But DVR advocated for me, helped employers understand support options…and helped me focus on jobs I actually cared about."

"DVR was my backbone," she said, "They gave me confidence that there are workplaces where my skills are valued, and my needs are respected."

Discover how your organization can take actionable steps in the workplace to ensure the needs of your workforce are being met. Visit DVR Business Services.