News & Information > Success Stories

Steve Libby has an eye for action

DAYTONA BEACH — When photographer Steve Libby covers a sporting event, he is patient — waiting to capture just the right shot. The normally very active Libby has learned that patience is a virtue, especially when getting great pictures.

Libby, 31, has had pictures published in four newspapers: The Daytona Beach News Journal, News Tribune, Flagler Times and Palm Coast Observer. He has also been printed in several magazines.

Libby, who is deaf and has developmental disabilities, receives job coaching and other services from Florida's Agency for Persons with Disabilities. October is Disability Employment Awareness Month. APD is highlighting the contributions of people with disabilities to the workforce.

In addition to his passion for photography, Libby works at a Cracker Barrel restaurant in Palm Coast as a dishwasher. He received a five-year pin for his service to the restaurant

"Steve is very good at his job, which requires you to be physical and quick," associate manager Robert Woerner says. "Being a dishwasher can be quite intense during busy times, and he is able to maintain the fast pace in the kitchen. He has an excellent work ethic."

Libby gets along well with his co-workers. When asked about the best part of his job, Libby says, "I like the money." He uses his income to buy digital cameras.

APD job coach Bob Rollin has accompanied Libby on photography shoots, from football games to bull riding at a rodeo. "He has no fear of the hearing world. He is fearless." Rollin says.

Rollin says Libby's presence at a variety of sporting events for photo coverage has helped break down barriers. Coaches and athletes have become accustomed to having Libby around and have figured out ways to communicate with him. He has even ridden on the team bus to games.

APD supports people with developmental disabilities to live, learn and work in their communities. The agency annually serves more than 50,000 Floridians with autism, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, and Prader-Willi syndrome. For more information about the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, visit APDcares.org.