Shawn …Giving Back to the Community
Occupation: Lawyer
Shawn was seventeen years old with a career in sports ahead of him when
he had a diving accident and injured his spine resulting in paraplegia. In
that moment, his whole life changed and Shawn quickly learned that all
the things that he took for granted would be different. Shawn persevered
and with the constant support of his mother, he initiated a plan for
himself to finish college and pursue a career in law.
While in high school Shawn sought out VESID assistance. With support
from VESID’s Vocational Rehabilitation counselor, VESID was able
to purchase adapted technology, such as a voice activated computer. This
technology allowed Shawn to complete his educational requirements and
be part of the mainstream college experience. In order
for Shawn to be able to commute to college and be prepared to transport
himself to work, VESID also purchased adaptive equipment that enabled
Shawn to drive his van. VESID supported Shawn’s continued education
and he entered the TURO Law School, receiving his law degree and was
admitted to the New York State Bar.
While completing his law degree, Shawn had several intern experiences,
the last one in the New York State Attorney General’s Office. Shawn
initially found employment at a law firm where he practiced Criminal
law and then part-time employment with the Suffolk County Family Court
as a Court Assigned Counsel, where he advocated for children
Having found a judge as his mentor, he was assigned cases as the court appointed attorney that focused on advocating for low income families. Shawn’s personality has always been driven and he felt he could be even a better advocate if he established his own law firm. VESID is able to support the start of a self-employment plan when an individual demonstrates the skills necessary to develop and run a business and Shawn was able to do just that.
Shawn is a shinning example of someone who overcame crisis and continues to demonstrate that the odds can be beat with motivation and VESID supports and in his case, a keen sense of ambition and success.
Susin Packert, Regional Marketing Representative
Hauppauge District Office
