National Disability Employment Awareness Month 2010

By OAASA- EEO for STAND-TO!October 6, 2010

National Disability Employment Awareness Month 2010

What is it'

Each year, the month of October is celebrated as "National Disability Employment Awareness Month" to remind both job seekers and employers alike of the employment needs and contributions of those with disabilities. This year's theme, "Talent Has No Boundaries: Workforce Diversity Includes People with Disabilities" is meant to emphasize the rich diversity and talent that workers with disabilities bring to the workplace.

What has the Army done'

Many activities and events are planned through the national capital region and at Installations worldwide. Including seminars and symposiums about hiring and promotion with and avoiding discrimination claims in the federal workplace. There will also be a Disability Mentoring Day and a stage play about returning veterans with disabilities and combat related trauma and their stories as they reintegrate into their families, communities, educational institutions and the workforce. There is also a Pentagon National Disability Employment Awareness Month exhibit featuring the Army Wounded Warrior Program and the Workforce Recruitment Program for College Students with Disabilities located on the A-Ring, 2nd floor apex of Corridors 9 and 10.

What continued efforts does the Army have planned for the future'

The Army has always been in the forefront of accommodating persons with disabilities. They will continue their efforts in the areas of job restructuring, flexible work schedules, reassignments, acquisition and modification of equipment adjustment of examinations, training materials and policies where appropriate and a host of other programs.

Why is this important to the Army'

Employment offers greater freedom, independence, and the chance to fully participate in and contribute to society. Work opportunities give people with disabilities the ability to secure affordable, accessible housing; transportation; health care; assistive technology; education; and opportunities to socialize and participate in community and political life. Employers who hire people with disabilities find they have tapped into a talented, skilled, and diverse pool of workers, who often bring a unique perspective of diversity to the workplace.

References:

<a href="http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/executive-order-increasing-federal-employment-individuals-with-disabilities" target="_blank"> President Barack Obama's National Disability Employment Month Proclamation- Executive Order - Increasing Federal Employment of Individuals with Disabilities</a>

<a href="http://www.aw2.army.mil/" target="_blank"> Army Wounded Warrior Program </a>

<a href="http://www.wrp.gov" target="_blank">Workforce Recruitment Program </a>

<a href="https://hrmadesimple.golearnportal.org/" target="_blank"> Schedule A Hiring (on line training)</a>

Contacts: For additional information contact Ms. Geneva Prather, Acting Disability Program Manager, at 703-604-2945 or Geneva.Prather@us.army.mil.