Meet Lisa P: A Trailblazer in Overcoming Challenges and Inspiring Others

Lisa P. is not your typical employee. She was born with Cerebral Palsy, she has spent her life  defying expectations. She is living proof a physical disability doesn’t limit what you can achieve. In fact, she has made it her life’s mission to work hard and inspire others to do so as well. That’s why we want to share her remarkable story with you.

Lisa’s journey is one of perseverance, dedication and an unwavering determination to never give up. She has continuously pushed herself, sought out and embraced physically demanding jobs that challenge her body and spirit. For the past 13 years, she has been a vital member of our Laundry Department. In this role, she is responsible for loading the machines, washing and drying laundry, preparing the pool towels for the waterpark, sorting the laundry chute, organizing the laundry room; and assisting with inventory.

According to her supervisor, Natasha C., “Lisa’s job demands both physical strength and a deep commitment to service. Her work ethic, determination, and resilience are truly admirable.”

Lisa’s dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. She has become a role model for others. Despite her physical challenges, Lisa never shies away from hard work. In fact, she has consistently exceeds expectations, pushing herself and inspiring those around her to do the same.”

However, Lisa’s story doesn’t end with her own success. For the past six years, she has served as a mentor for Project SEARCH at our resort – an initiative designed to help individuals with disabilities find meaningful employment. Through her mentorship of over 40 Project SEARCH participants, Lisa has empowered young adults with disabilities to realize their potential and understand that they, too, can achieve great things in the workforce if they put their minds to it.

Lisa sets high standards for everyone she works with, always challenging them to exceed expectations. She believes in each individual’s capacity for growth and achievement, and she instills that belief in others, encouraging them to reach for their goals, no matter how daunting they may seem.

Lisa’s impact extends beyond the walls of our resort. In 2019, she was featured in the State of Tennessee’s Breaking Ground magazine for her willingness to participate in job training for young adults with disabilities. Her involvement in this program has been instrumental in providing practical work experience and training, helping others transition into meaningful careers, just as she has. While being recognized in Breaking Ground was a testament to her tireless dedication, for Lisa, it’s never been about the accolades—it’s about creating real, lasting change in the lives of others.

It’s also clear that Lisa’s “never give up” attitude transcends the workplace. Her resilience and perseverance serve as an inspiring example for everyone she meets. Lisa’s commitment to her work, her high standards, and her positive, supportive presence have made her an irreplaceable employee, Project SEARCH mentor, and role model.

Lisa’s journey proves that disability is not a barrier to success—it’s simply a part of the unique story each individual has to tell. She is an inspiration to us all and a powerful reminder that hard work, dedication, and the refusal to give up can lead to extraordinary achievements, regardless of the challenges we face.