Ericka Umbarger Ericka Neville
Manager/Vocational Counselor

I consider the day a success if…
I have helped my clients stay positive in their job search despite the many barriers that currently exist.

The toughest challenge I have faced is…
Trying to change individuals’ preconceived notions and stereotypes about people with disabilities.

Ericka joined The Choice Group in 2004, bringing with her a background in various organizations and causes that affect people with disabilities, including the American Cancer Society, the Richmond City Department of Health and two nursing homes. She has been a committed volunteer with the Arthritis Foundation for many years, having attended Advocacy Summits in Washington, DC, spoken at various events, served as a mentor to children with arthritis, and organized special events. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Arthritis Foundation, the Virginia Rehabilitation Association, and the Long Term Employment Support Services (LTESS) Advisory Committee to the Commissioner of the Department of Rehabilitative Services. Ericka is a member of the American Association of People with Disabilities and received the Ethyl Louise Armstrong (ELA) Scholarship in graduate school. The ELA Award honors female graduate students with disabilities who strive through advocacy to make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities. Ericka was recognized by the Virginia Rehabilitation Association in 2008 with the Distinguished Achievement Award.

Having earned the appreciation and recognition of clients in the Richmond area, Ericka assumed management responsibilities and successfully expanded the coverage of The Choice Group to the Roanoke and Hampton Roads areas.

Education and Certification
Ericka holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Sociology from Roanoke College and a Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University.
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