Jeri Renshaw’s story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of the right support system at the right time.
Her work ethic began early. At just 13, Jeri was already babysitting and helping her mother clean offices. By 15, she was gaining hands-on experience working “under the table” at a tax office and an insurance office, filing and organizing receipts. A year later, she was officially hired part-time at the tax office—a role that soon expanded into seasonal full-time work. Throughout college and into adulthood, Jeri continued working full time, building a steady and reliable career.
In her 40s, however, life took an unexpected turn. Jeri developed neuropathy, first in one foot and then the other. Over time, she required a brace and eventually a cane. Still, she persevered and continued working.
Then, in her mid-50s, everything changed.
“I started having tremors—suddenly and severely,” Jeri recalls. “I had to keep calling in sick, and eventually, I couldn’t work anymore.”
After depleting her savings, Jeri made the difficult decision to move back in with her parents—an experience she describes as incredibly hard. Soon after, she was diagnosed with epilepsy. With the help of her doctor, she found the right medication to manage her symptoms and control the tremors that had once been debilitating.
Ready to rebuild her life, Jeri connected with the Nevada Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation (DETR)—a turning point in her journey.
Through DETR, Jeri met Vivian, a counselor who made an immediate and lasting impact. “She cared—truly cared,” Jeri says. That simple but powerful support became a source of motivation Jeri still carries with her every day.
With Vivian’s guidance, Jeri enrolled in a 700-hour training program that helped her reestablish structure, confidence, and connection. The program also introduced her to a supportive community of peers navigating similar challenges.
“It got me out of the house, dressed, and back around people,” she says. “People who understood—who were non-judgmental. I was smiling, talking, and happy again.”
Jeri credits Sandra, a key leader in the 700-hour program, as a “cheerleader” throughout the process—especially during applications and mock interviews. She also received invaluable support from Amanda and Joshua, who helped her prepare for the next step: reentering the workforce.
Soon, interview opportunities began to arrive. Jeri was mindful of her mobility challenges, particularly when considering positions that required commuting to Carson City. Then, the opportunity she had been hoping for appeared—a local position in Reno with the Gaming Control Board. With her previous experience at IGT, Jeri felt confident stepping back into the gaming industry.
Today, Jeri is midway through her fourth week in what she proudly calls her “midlife—and, God willing, final—career.”
“I love it,” she shares. “The people are amazing. My supervisor is great. The environment is so nice.”
Jeri expresses deep gratitude for everyone at DETR—from her counselors to the front office staff who helped her scan paperwork and always greeted her with kindness.
“What a wonderful program,” she says. “It’s a process, but a worthwhile one for certain.”
Jeri’s journey is a testament to perseverance, community, and the life-changing impact of compassionate support.
