Person Behind The Place: Jenna Heberden

Person Behind The Place:
Jenna Heberden

Manager of Employment Service | AtWork!

Passionate about making the world more inclusive, Jenna Heberden's job at AtWork! is to make the workplace more accessible for people with disabilities. This is no new task. Before joining AtWork!, she was a reporter for a statewide morning show in Montana where she used her platform to give people with disabilities a voice. Her inspiration comes from her family. Heberden’s mom has been a pre-school paraeducator working in special education for over 15 years. Additionally, she has three nieces/nephews that are on the Autism spectrum. Heberden hopes that her work will allow them to eventually get jobs and be contributing members of society. Hear more about what Heberden's looking forward to this year, what makes Bellevue unique, and her favorite places to spend time in Downtown.

How does Bellevue stand apart from other metro areas?

Bellevue really stands apart as a community and it's been amazing to work here, especially with the local families and businesses. There are so many inclusive businesses nearby such as Saleforce, Davis Wright Tremain and Costco. The transportation in Bellevue is also unrivaled. Many of the people we serve utilize King County's Access Transportation Services to get from home to work and back again. The community within this area promotes some of the most amazing inclusion practices we've seen. That's why AtWork! originally got its start in King County, where disability was part of the diversity and inclusion conversation.

What about AtWork! motivates you? What are you most excited for this year?

Champions of Inclusion is our virtual, annual fundraising event taking place next month. It's an opportunity for us to gather safely and honor the achievements of people with disabilities served by our organization, as well as the businesses in the communities that create life-changing opportunities through employment. I'm personally most excited for the stories! Every year, we highlight an inclusive employer and person we serve and have a professional team create a video on their story. They're always very powerful, and we end up using them a lot when job developing or describing what we do to folks. This year, we're producing three videos highlighting a champion business and person served in each of our counties of service: King, Snohomish, and Spokane.

Are there any downtown events or activities you've been looking forward to?

In the winter, I love to go to Snowflake Lane. In the summer, Meydenbauer Bay Park is wonderful for a dip in the lake.

Any favorite downtown places to grab a bite to eat or drink? 

Some of my favorite places to grab food and drinks in Downtown Bellevue include Sam's Tavern and 520 Bar & Grill. Ascend Prime Steak & Sushi also offers stunning views of the city, lake and has a great happy hour.

Any hidden gems in Bellevue you'd like to share? 

During my outdoor adventuring, it's been awesome to see more nature trails throughout Bellevue that are ADA accessible! Including some of my favorites, the Bellevue Botanical Garden and the Lake Hills Greenbelt! It's amazing to see disability inclusion embedded in a community.

Follow AtWork! on social for more event updates and job opportunities!

 

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Person Behind the Place is part of the Heart of Bellevue: our campaign to showcase local businesses while connecting you with stories of activity, creativity and recovery. Find out about our campaign and explore more of what’s happening around Downtown.