CHESAPEAKE, Va. — Brittany Ward-Jarrells was managing programs and strategies for care-centered businesses when her career took an unexpected turn which led her to create her own business.
"One of the companies let me go on May 2, 2022," Ward-Jarrells said, calling the moment a potential breaking point.
Instead, she decided to make a move that led to her trading paychecks for her passion.
"[I] walked out, went and bought a $350 laptop, and I said, 'God, if I can just help somebody, I know the money will come,'" Ward-Jarrells said. "Because what I'm doing for one company, I can do for several."
Ward-Jarrells began building her new business that day.
In March, community officials and members gathered in Chesapeake for a grand opening ceremony, welcoming Ward Enterprises Consulting Agency, Inc. to the city.
"Ward Enterprises is a consult[ing] firm that helps other Medicaid providers," Ward-Jarrells said. "I love helping people. I love figuring out a way to connect. I love helping staff."
She noted that the agency provides human resource training and organization services to any business that needs them, but she specializes in supporting Medicaid providers.
"I found my niche. I found my place in the world," Ward-Jarrells said.
The revelation of her purpose came after years of working with people who have Medicaid coverage. Ward-Jarrells said that her family opened their home to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities for years.
Inspired by her experiences, Ward-Jarrells launched iSmart Residential Services as a division of Ward Enterprises. The service pairs people with intellectual and developmental disabilities with families and homes that provide them with services and support.
Ward-Jarrells said iSmart accepts Community Living Waivers and is licensed by the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services.
"We place individuals in other people's homes. I have individuals in my home," Ward-Jarrells said. "Sponsored residential [services were] created to provide person-centered care."
Ward-Jarrells said her work goes beyond business: it's all about service to providers and people.
"Ward Enterprises is named after my grandfather, Dr. I. L. Ward, Sr.," Ward-Jarrells said. "He was for the people. I'm for the people... I want to champion for the civil rights of the intellectual and developmentally disabled."
Ward Enterprises Consulting Agency, Inc. is located in The Crossings at Deep Creek shopping center at 2605 Moses Grandy Trail, Suite D, Chesapeake, VA 23323.
The agency is looking for people who can provide homes and services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. If you'd like to learn more about becoming a sponsored residential provider, call 757-800-3609.