“Determination Takes You a Long Way”: Rhonda Celebrates Over 20 Years with RHA

July 27, 2026

Rhonda Phifer joined RHA in 1995. While pursuing another career path and handling a family emergency, she worked on-and-off with RHA through 2002. In 2006, she knew it was time to return to the job she missed and loved. “I came to the conclusion that my passion was to assist and work with people with disabilities. This was where I needed to be. Working at RHA has brought me more joy than anything.”

Rhonda currently serves as the Human Resources/Staffing Coordinator in Statesville, NC. Throughout her tenure, she has been a Residential Team Lead, Habilitation Specialist, and Communication Habilitation Assistant. She is also a CPR/First Aid Instructor. Rhonda says, “I strive to be a model employee for others I work alongside daily. I have always wanted to lead others and show that determination takes you a long way.” Her growing career path is proof of exactly that.

Reflecting on her career path, Rhonda shares a favorite memory of working as a Residential Team Leader and taking five women to the beach for the first time. “It brought me so much joy,” she says. “I was able to help their dream come true. Just watching them walk in the sand and put their feet in the ocean water was so rewarding.”

As a Habilitation Specialist, Rhonda experienced an extraordinary moment. During a home visit, she successfully intervened during a medical crisis. The experience fueled her dedication to her work, team, and people she served.

Today, Rhonda enjoys bringing in the right people to support the individuals served at RHA. “My passion is to recruit like-minded employees as myself that are willing to go the extra mile in helping make a difference in someone’s life,” says Rhonda. “I believe that empathy, patience, communication, and positivity are the keys to being a dedicated team member.”

Rhonda, thank you for leading by example for over 20 years! Happy work anniversary!

Are you interested in a career with RHA? To find jobs near you, visit rhajobs.com.