Shawn Jones
Synopsis
Shawn Jones lives his life and leads his employees with courage, passion and optimism. Jones, who has physical disabilities from a dog attack in his childhood, began his career at Pacific Coast Community Services (PCCS) as a mail clerk. He described the interactions that led him to this job as a lightning bolt in his life. He said he could feel it every time he walked into the doors at PCCS. "It was my mailroom," Jones said. "I wanted to be here." In a few short years, he advanced to mailroom supervisor, where he manages eighteen employees at mailrooms across the state of California. Jones is also a dedicated advocate for people with disabilities, a motivational speaker and a proud foster parent.
The Full Story
Shawn Jones is a symbol of success and determination for individuals with disabilities. Despite facing physical disabilities following a severe dog attack suffered in childhood, Jones approaches life with passion and positivity, which makes him an exemplary role model at his job and beyond.
Starting as a mail clerk at Pacific Coast Community Services through an AbilityOne® contract, Jones quickly received multiple promotions and currently holds the position of mailroom supervisor. Today, he oversees 18 employees at eight IRS mailrooms throughout California, providing training and supervision to his team while setting an example of success through his commitment to his job. He manages his team—a diverse group of employees with different disabilities—with compassion and empathy, always ready to act as a mentor or advocate.
"Shawn continues to grow and strive to reach his goals which creates a positive environment within our organization," Chris Flynn, CEO of Pacific Coast Community Services, said. "He is a testament to how the AbilityOne Program can not only be a life-changing experience but also a way for our employees to empower other people with disabilities be successful in their vocational goals."
Outside of work, Jones is a committed advocate for individuals with disabilities. He uses his story to inspire others through motivational speaking at local schools, nonprofit organizations and events. Jones spoke at the 2024 SourceAmerica Grassroots Advocacy Conference in Washington D.C. He also speaks with legislators to advocate for enhanced employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Jones is now a proud foster parent and credits his job with instilling a sense of purpose and stability that enables him to care for his foster son.
"This job has changed me not only professionally, but personally," Jones said. "I don't think I would have him, because it was a very rigorous thing… I don’t think I would have been able to have him to pass all of that, go through all of that without this opportunity that brought light into my life."
Jones' leadership, work ethics and positive outlook continue to make him a role model and mentor to many and is a shining example of the power of optimism and determination. In 2025, Jones received the Evelyne Villines Award, which honors an individual with a disability who has advanced from work on an AbilityOne® contract into management within the nonprofit agency or into private or government employment.
