Empathy Unveiled: Angela Calzone's Journey, Transforming Disabilities into Opportunities with INROADS

In this episode, meet Angela Calzone, the President and CEO of INROADS to Opportunities, a New Jersey-based nonprofit dedicated to helping over 400 individuals with disabilities attain and sustain meaningful employment. Angela shares the organization's history since its inception in 1959, emphasizing its growth and diverse programs. She also reflects on her personal journey with INROADS, from owning a management consulting firm to becoming the newly appointed CEO. Angela discusses the impactful rebranding of the organization, breaking away from a predefined occupational center image to showcase the myriad opportunities they offer. The conversation takes a personal turn as Angela recounts a touching childhood experience of kindness overcoming expectations, highlighting the importance of empathy and acceptance in fostering a positive community.

Angela shares a deeply personal story about her childhood, recounting a time when her visible disability made her apprehensive about school. She vividly describes the challenges of wearing extensive body and leg braces as a preteen. In a heartwarming turn, she narrates how a fellow classmate's simple act of kindness transformed the situation. The boy's genuine curiosity, respect, and inclusivity turned a potentially challenging day into a positive, educational experience for the entire class. This touching memory became a turning point, helping Angela feel accepted, raise awareness about her disability, and cultivate a sense of belonging in her school community. As we wrap up this episode, Angela leaves us with a profound message: the significance of small gestures in making a lasting impact. INROADS to Opportunities not only transforms the lives of those they serve but also echoes the essence of understanding, compassion, and the pursuit of meaningful opportunities for everyone. Join us in the next episode as we continue to explore inspiring stories and the profound impact of organizations like INROADS.