I Work Because DOR Works

I Work Because DOR Works


Woman smiling in graduation attire, with a ceremonial sash. Featuring logos for #NDEAM and DOR WORKS: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a pattern in the background.
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DOR Works logo: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a transparent pattern in the background. Quote reads: “I never thought I could go to college due to financial barriers and other challenges, but thanks to DOR, I have exceeded my academic and personal expectations! DOR has been with me every step of the way through my educational journey that led to my current career as a registered nurse. I can now use my knowledge to support communities through outreach and health education.
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Chaulette Palafox,
Registered Nurse

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DOR consumer Chaulette Palafox is an example of resilience and determination. As a woman with neurodiversity and PTSD from gun violence, she faced numerous challenges in her pursuit of higher education, but with the support of the DOR, Chaulette was able to achieve her academic and professional goals. After completing an associate degree, she earned her bachelor's degree in health science administration at California State University, Stanislaus, and a master's degree in nursing from UC Davis. She is a registered nurse working for the Sacramento Unified School District and a part-time nurse at UC Davis Health Medical Center. Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of support and advocacy.

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Woman smiling in graduation attire, with a ceremonial sash. Featuring logos for #NDEAM and DOR WORKS: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a pattern in the background.

DOR Works logo: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a transparent pattern in the background. Quote reads: “I never thought I could go to college due to financial barriers and other challenges, but thanks to DOR, I have exceeded my academic and personal expectations! DOR has been with me every step of the way through my educational journey that led to my current career as a registered nurse. I can now use my knowledge to support communities through outreach and health education." – Chaulette Palafox #NDEAM


Man on a construction site standing beside a ladder, wearing a toolbelt, with a drill in his right hand, holding up the peace sign with his left hand, smiling at the camera. Text reads: Jason Mayhall, Construction Laborer. Featuring logos for #NDEAM and DOR WORKS: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a pattern in the background.
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DOR Works logo: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a transparent pattern in the background. Quote reads: I started receiving services from DOR when I was on parole. My DOR counselor believed in me, and I was able to build my life back up to a level that is acceptable in society. I have a good job and am making a good living. - Jason Mayhall #NDEAM
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Jason Mayhall,
Construction Laborer

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Jason Mayhall's struggle with a substance abuse disorder and a mental health disability contributed to his personal challenges. After connecting with DOR when he was on parole, Jason was able to receive employment counseling and guidance and referrals to community services as needed. That support enabled Jason to learn a trade and re-integrate in society. He now works in the construction industry and is an example of how the trajectory of a person's life can change when they have are employed and feel like they have a purpose in life.

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Man on a construction site standing beside a ladder, wearing a toolbelt, with a drill in his right hand, holding up the peace sign with his left hand, smiling at the camera. Text reads: Jason Mayhall, Construction Laborer. Featuring logos for #NDEAM and DOR WORKS: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a pattern in the background.

DOR Works logo: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a transparent pattern in the background. Quote reads: "I started receiving services from DOR when I was on parole. My DOR counselor believed in me, and I was able to build my life back up to a level that is acceptable in society. I have a good job and am making a good living." - Jason Mayhall #NDEAM


Woman wearing a graduation gown, sash and medal, posing with hands on her hips, smiling at a crowded outdoor event surrounded by people. Text reads: Hannah Grace Leece, Journalist/Reporter. Featuring logos for #NDEAM and DOR WORKS: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a pattern in the background.
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DOR Works logo: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a transparent pattern in the background. Quote reads: As a new reporter, I am learning and getting tons of experience as a writer, and making connections that can help with my career growth. I am so grateful to the people who work for DOR in assisting me with making my dream of working in journalism a reality. - Hannah Grace Leece #NDEAM
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Hannah Grace Leece,
Reporter

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When Hannah Grace Leece was attending college, she wasn't sure if her dream of being a reporter would become a reality. As a DOR consumer with a mental health disability, Hannah Grace received support from DOR while completing her BA degree in English Literature from California State University, Fresno. After graduating, Hannah was hired as a reporter for the Clovis Roundup Community Newspaper where she gets to write about people in the community. Through DOR, Hannah Grace was able to achieve her employment goal and is developing her professional skills to advance in her work.

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Woman wearing a graduation gown, sash and medal, posing with hands on her hips, smiling at a crowded outdoor event surrounded by people. Text reads: Hannah Grace Leece, Journalist/Reporter. Featuring logos for #NDEAM and DOR WORKS: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a pattern in the background.

DOR Works logo: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a transparent pattern in the background. Quote reads: " As a new reporter, I am learning and getting tons of experience as a writer, and making connections that can help with my career growth. I am so grateful to the people who work for DOR in assisting me with making my dream of working in journalism a reality." - Hannah Grace Leece #NDEAM


Man wearing a reflective vest and posing in front of a mirror. Text reads: Tyvell Coleman, Mining Laborer. Featuring logos for #NDEAM and DOR WORKS: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a pattern in the background.
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DOR Works logo: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a transparent pattern in the background. Quote reads: I am very pleased with the services I received through DOR and how those services helped me along my career journey. I am grateful for the unwavering support from my counselor and the incredible employment opportunities that have come my way thanks to DOR. - Tyvell Coleman #NDEAM
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Tyvell Coleman,
Mining Laborer

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Tyvell Colman did not let his mental health disability stand in the way of him embracing the services that DOR offered. Over his five years as a DOR consumer, Tyvell worked hard and took advantage of every opportunity to learn the skills to make sure he was career ready. His determination paid off and now, he has a full-time permanent entry-level position with the Golden Queen Mining Company. Tyvell is earning a competitive wage, and his success is a testament to the support system that DOR has in place to assist individuals with disabilities on their pathway to employment.

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Man wearing a reflective vest and posing in front of a mirror. Text reads: Tyvell Coleman, Mining Laborer. Featuring logos for #NDEAM and DOR WORKS: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a pattern in the background.

DOR Works logo: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a transparent pattern in the background. Quote reads: "I am very pleased with the services I received through DOR and how those services helped me along my career journey. I am grateful for the unwavering support from my counselor and the incredible employment opportunities that have come my way thanks to DOR." - Tyvell Coleman #NDEAM


Woman smiling at a desk with a laptop, holding a pen in her right hand. Text reads: Olivia Kite, Communications Analyst. Featuring logos for #NDEAM and DOR WORKS: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a pattern in the background.
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DOR Works logo: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a transparent pattern in the background.  Quote reads: Working at DOR allows me to do what I love which is marketing and work for an organization that helped work on my career goals when I was a consumer and continues to support my community. – Olivia Kite #NDEAM
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Olivia Kite,
Communications Analyst

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Olivia Kite is a former DOR consumer who never let her disability get in the way of achieving her academic, career, and life goals. Olivia is a young stroke survivor with an undiagnosed genetic connective tissue disorder. The DOR supported Olivia's efforts to go back to school during the pandemic to get her master’s degree in marketing from the University of Colorado. She is able to apply her academic experience in her work as a communications analyst for DOR and helps to create marketing collateral and social media content that amplifies DOR’s work on behalf of people with disabilities.

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Woman smiling at a desk with a laptop, holding a pen in her right hand. Text reads: Olivia Kite, Communications Analyst. Featuring logos for #NDEAM and DOR WORKS: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a pattern in the background.

DOR Works logo: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a transparent pattern in the background. Quote reads: "Working at DOR allows me to do what I love which is marketing and work for an organization that helped work on my career goals when I was a consumer and continues to support my community." – Olivia Kite #NDEAM


Woman wearing graduation cap and gown, adorned with honor cords, and a sash. Text reads: Darlene Allen, Therapist. Featuring logos for #NDEAM and DOR WORKS: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a pattern in the background. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.
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DOR Works logo: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a transparent pattern in the background. Quote reads: If not for DOR’s support with my educational goal, I would not have been successful in obtaining my bachelor’s or master’s Degree. I was able to focus on my education and graduate with distinction, as a straight A scholar. My counselor was always there to support me and encourage me when I wanted to give up. – Darlene Allen #NDEAM
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Darlene Allen,
Therapist

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Darlene Allen is a former DOR consumer that did not let anything get in the way of achieving her career goals. As an individual with mental health and medical disabilities Darlene's perseverance and determination guided her as she earned a BA degree in psychology and MA in licensed professional clinical counseling from California State University at Stanislaus. She is an associate clinical social worker and currently works at Valley Community Counseling Services, as a therapist working towards the required hours to become a licensed therapist. DOR staff that worked with Darlene describe as a person with unique strengths and abilities and when others told Darlene she couldn't, she did!

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Woman wearing graduation cap and gown, adorned with honor cords, and a sash. Text reads: Darlene Allen, Therapist. Featuring logos for #NDEAM and DOR WORKS: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a pattern in the background. There is an I Work Because DOR Works logo at the bottom of the photo and smaller versions of the logo repeated on the background.

DOR Works logo: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a transparent pattern in the background. Quote reads: "If not for DOR’s support with my educational goal, I would not have been successful in obtaining my bachelor’s or master’s Degree. I was able to focus on my education and graduate with distinction, as a straight A scholar. My counselor was always there to support me and encourage me when I wanted to give up." – Darlene Allen #NDEAM


Woman sitting at a desk in front of a computer screen, turned around to smile at the camera, wearing a headset. Text reads: Hannah Paley, Seasonal Clerk. Featuring logos for #NDEAM and DOR WORKS: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a pattern in the background.
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DOR Works logo: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a transparent pattern in the background. Quote reads: I am so thankful the state internship program gave me a chance to get connected with state employment.  I enjoy being able to assist my co-workers in helping my peers with disabilities get ahead in life. – Hannah Paley #NDEAM
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Hannah Paley,
Seasonal Clerk

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Hannah Paley came to DOR through the State Internship Program (SIP). As a person with an intellectual and developmental disability, Hannah was able to participate in the paid work training program and learn office and customer service skills. She was so successful that after completing the program, she was hired as a seasonal office clerk. Hannah loves her job and is happy that she was provided an entry to not only a job in state service but a career.

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Woman sitting at a desk in front of a computer screen, turned around to smile at the camera, wearing a headset. Text reads: Hannah Paley, Seasonal Clerk. Featuring logos for #NDEAM and DOR WORKS: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a pattern in the background.

DOR Works logo: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a transparent pattern in the background. Quote reads: "I am so thankful the state internship program gave me a chance to get connected with state employment.  I enjoy being able to assist my co-workers in helping my peers with disabilities get ahead in life." – Hannah Paley #NDEAM


Man smiling in front of a blooming tree. Text reads: Carlos Alvarez, Training Instructor. Featuring logos for #NDEAM and DOR WORKS: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a pattern in the background.
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DOR Works logo I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a transparent pattern in the background. Quote reads: The services, assistance and support I received through DOR allowed me to start a new career as a mental health training instructor. Thank you to my counselor and everyone at DOR who help people thrive during their most challenging times.– Carlos Alvarez #NDEAM
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Carlos Alvarez,
Training Instructor

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Carlos Alvarez came to DOR after leaving a nearly twenty year career as a public school educator due to his mental health disability. Carlos received the support and career guidance from DOR that enabled him to new employment journey where he could use his teaching skills. After completing the necessary training and certification through the California Association of Peer Supporters (CAPS) Academy, when a position at CAPS opened up recently, Carlos applied and was hired as a training instructor. Carlos is happy to be working for an organization that seeks to be part of the mental health solution in today's world.

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Man smiling in front of a blooming tree. Text reads: Carlos Alvarez, Training Instructor. Featuring logos for #NDEAM and DOR WORKS: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a pattern in the background.

DOR Works logo I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a transparent pattern in the background. Quote reads: "The services, assistance and support I received through DOR allowed me to start a new career as a mental health training instructor. Thank you to my counselor and everyone at DOR who help people thrive during their most challenging times."– Carlos Alvarez #NDEAM


Woman standing in an office, posing and smiling with her hands on her hips. Text reads: Frances Latimer, Self Employed. Featuring logos for #NDEAM and DOR WORKS: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a pattern in the background.
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DOR Works logo: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a transparent pattern in the background. Quote reads: My DOR counselor was incredible and responsive and did everything possible to set me up for success. Her involvement, care, and support played a key role in enabling me to achieve my self-employment goal and open my own business. – Frances Latimer #NDEAM
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Frances Latimer,
Business Owner

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Frances Latimer came to DOR when she decided to reenter the workforce after experiencing a traumatic brain injury. With self-employment as her career goal, Frances received the support and services through DOR that allowed her to go to school and receive training in her field of choice. With the knowledge she gained about the billing industry, credentialing and healthcare management, Frances was able to start her company and now as a woman of color with a disability and business owner, she is excited to make an impact in the healthcare sector and continue to champion for diversity and inclusion.

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Woman standing in an office, posing and smiling with her hands on her hips. Text reads: Frances Latimer, Self Employed. Featuring logos for #NDEAM and DOR WORKS: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a pattern in the background.

DOR Works logo: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a transparent pattern in the background. Quote reads: "My DOR counselor was incredible and responsive and did everything possible to set me up for success. Her involvement, care, and support played a key role in enabling me to achieve my self-employment goal and open my own business."– Frances Latimer #NDEAM


Man smiling, standing against a beige wall. Text reads: Christopher Lua, Office Technician. Featuring logos for #NDEAM and DOR WORKS: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a pattern in the background.
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DOR Works logo: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a transparent pattern in the background. Quote reads: If it wasn’t for the DOR state internship program, I don’t know if I would have been able to get a job with the state. The program helped me learn all about state service and I have been able to advance in my career and now, I have a permanent job and want to look for more opportunities to move up and grow. – Christopher Lua #NDEAM
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Christopher Lua,
Office Technician

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Christopher Lua started his state employment journey through the State Internship Program (SIP) in 2021. After graduating with a BA in sociology from UC Riverside, Chris, who has autism, applied for the DOR SIP after hearing about it though his regional center. The SIP allowed Chris to gain work experience and provided a pathway to state service. He was later hired by DOR as a support services assistant for a staff member who was blind. He continued his upward trajectory with DOR and applied for an office technician-general position and has been in that role for the last two years. In addition to his regular duties, Chris also mentors and supports new SIPs and says that the one of the favorite aspects of his job are the people he works with.

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Man smiling, standing against a beige wall. Text reads: Christopher Lua, Office Technician. Featuring logos for #NDEAM and DOR WORKS: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a pattern in the background.

DOR Works logo: I work because DOR works. Smaller versions of the DOR WORKS logo, featuring an icon of a person in a wheelchair merged into the shape of a heart, and the blue circle from the DOR logo are repeated in a transparent pattern in the background. Quote reads: "If it wasn’t for the DOR state internship program, I don’t know if I would have been able to get a job with the state. The program helped me learn all about state service and I have been able to advance in my career and now, I have a permanent job and want to look for more opportunities to move up and grow." – Christopher Lua #NDEAM