Alumni Spotlight: Megan Wilson

Red River Community Corps (RRCC) members bring their talents and energy to support our partner sites, addressing some of the most pressing challenges in Oklahoma. 

In this alumni spotlight, we talk with alumni RRCC member Megan Wilson about her time with Red River. 

Megan has served for the past two years at Not Your Average Joe (NYAJ), an RRCC partner site. NYAJ is a nonprofit that empowers students and adults with intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities by giving them the opportunity to craft coffee in a supportive, inclusive environment. 

How are you making an impact with RRCC? 

Megan: There aren’t many resources for adults with disabilities, and after they age out of school, a lot of the support disappears. Right now, 77.5% of adults with disabilities are unemployed. Over the past two years, I’ve had the opportunity to make a real difference. When I first started, the unemployment rate for people with disabilities was 80%, and we’ve brought it down to 77.5%. I love that I get to make such a difference in my community. We're giving individuals with disabilities meaning and purpose. 

What is your favorite memory with RRCC? 

Megan: My favorite memory with RRCC was the incredible opportunity to transform a NYAJ location into a training center to help build capacity. I revamped the entire store, implemented a new training curriculum and collaborated with other organizations. We’ve now had three rotations of employee training, which has led to increased employment and more opportunities for individuals with disabilities. 

What skills did you gain from your time at RRCC? 

Megan: Since joining Red River, I’ve gained a variety of skills, with communication being the most significant. I was responsible for regularly communicating with parents and employees, handling updates and announcements to help bridge any gaps. This role pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me more extroverted, even though I’m naturally a hardcore introvert. While my social energy tends to run low, my experience at Red River has helped expand my ability to engage with others and strengthen my social boundaries. 

How did your time with RRCC help guide your future plans? 

Megan: The skills I’ve gained during my time with Red River and NYAJ have inspired me to continue serving individuals with disabilities, which led me to stay on full-time. I now serve as the Director of IT and Employee Coordinator. This opportunity allows me to build on the foundation I established as a Red River member and continue making a meaningful impact. 

What would you tell someone interested in becoming an RRCC Member? 

Megan: I would encourage anyone to join Red River Community Corps. It challenged me and pushed me out of my comfort zone in ways I needed but didn’t expect, and it’s given me the opportunity to make a real impact. 

* Click here to learn more about becoming a RRCC member.