Since 1945, the U. S. Department of Labor has sponsored the National Disability Employment Awareness Month. The theme for this year’s campaign is Disability: Part of the Equity Equation.
As of October 7th, there were over 10.1 million job openings waiting to be filled in the United States. As employers attempt to fill these positions, individuals with disabilities represent an untapped asset for these unfilled job positions. Individuals with developmental disabilities represent an untapped pool of resources who are ready and willing to take on new jobs. The OPWDD has committed itself to a five-year strategic plan to assist provider agencies that offer a full continuum of employment services to find and succeed in jobs that not only meet their interests but fulfill the demand that businesses have for employees today.
For the first time ever in the State of New York Governor Kathy Hochul and the State's Chief Disability Officer, Kim Hill, are sponsoring the Disability Rights and Employment Awareness Month (DREAM) Symposium. The goal of this initiative is to highlight the value that New Yorkers with disabilities can bring to businesses that meet the job requirements.
Lifespire continues to join and walk alongside OPWDD’s heroic efforts to bring together individuals with developmental disabilities and businesses that have opportunities.