In honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month this October, the Occupational Development Center (ODC) would like to thank local businesses in each of the 11 communities the nonprofit organization serves across northern Minnesota.
“ODC would like to thank all of our local businesses in Baudette, Bemidji, Buhl, Crookston, Grand Rapids, Hibbing, International Falls, Roseau, Thief River Falls, Virginia, and Warren who support disabilities employment not only this month but year-round!” said Lane Young, Vice President of Business Development and Operations. “We would not be able to fulfill our mission of greater independence for individuals with disabilities without the support of our communities.”
In addition, the ODC would like to extend an invitation to the public to get to know their local divisions better. Community members are encouraged to visit and take the opportunity to learn a little more about what ODC strives to do in each locality to empower people with disabilities—or just stop by to say hello!
For more information about the services and products that ODC provides—and to find out where the closest division to you is located—please visit odcmn.org.
PURPOSE OF NDEAM
National Disability Employment Awareness Month, an annual awareness campaign that takes place each October, serves to educate about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America’s workers with disabilities. This year’s theme is “America’s Workforce: Empowering All”.
“Americans of all abilities must have access to good, safe jobs,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta. “Smart employers know that including different perspectives in problem-solving situations leads to better solutions. Hiring employees with diverse abilities strengthens their business, increases competition and drives innovation.”
HISTORY OF NDEAM
The history of National Disability Employment Awareness Month traces back to 1945, when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October each year “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.” In 1962, the word “physically” was removed to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
LEARN MORE
Employers and employees in all industries can learn more about how to participate in National Disability Employment Awareness Month and ways they can promote its messages—during October and throughout the year—by visiting www.dol.gov/ndeam.
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