Celebrating Developmental Disabilities Month

A new campaign called Employment First was unveiled on Wednesday, February 24, at the state capitol in Salem to kick off Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, being celebrated in March.

An audience of hundreds, including people with developmental disabilities, their caregivers, advocates, service providers and legislators, were introduced to Carlos (pictured) who works at an Oregon bagel shop. Carlos is featured on a new poster that highlights his experience because both he and his employer recognize that his developmental disabilities are no barrier for him to deliver great customer service.

The Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities designed the new state initiative to create job opportunities for people with developmental disabilities. By increasing awareness of the untapped abilities of this important segment of the workforce, the goal is to move the overall unemployment rate down from the current level of 78 percent.

The campaign calls attention not only to people with developmental disabilities who want to work, but also to the benefits realized by businesses who employ them. Real jobs, paychecks and the dignity of employment enables Oregonians of all abilities to provide for themselves and their families at least a portion of essentials like housing, food, clothing and the supports and services needed in their lives.

There are many ways that employers can participate in the Employment First movement. Contacts include the Arc of Oregon at www.arcoregon.org, the Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities at www.ocdd.org or the Office of Developmental Disabilities Services at the Department of Human Services at  503-945-9815.