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Disability Employment Awareness Training

By KFBB News Team

Story Created: May 13, 2009 at 4:55 PM MST

Story Updated: May 13, 2009 at 5:08 PM MST

Nearly one in five Montanans has a disability, and it can be very difficult for these people to find employment. That’s why a seminar was held in Helena on Wednesday to raise awareness on disability employment.

Finding a job can be difficult for anyone, but for someone living with a disability, the challenge is even greater. More than 51 million Americans live with disability, and 150,00 of them live in Montana. As a result, the state government hosted a disability employment seminar for managers, lawyers, and human resources staff to bring awareness to this sensitive subject.

John Pavao, Americans with Disabilities Act Coordinator for State Equal Employment Opportunity, explained, “Unfortunately, a lot of times, I think people with disabilities encounter others, who maybe don’t have an understanding or awareness, which creates barriers for people with disabilities, and a lot of myths, misconceptions. But overall I think people with disabilities experience life a little differently, but they’re just like you and I.”

The seminar’s keynote speaker, John Kemp, is no stranger to adversity, as he was born without arms or legs. He inspires those living with disability to achieve the impossible.

John Kemp said, “Well it’s important to me, as it should be important to the entire community, and the entire state of Montana. We are neglecting an awful lot of talent out there that people with disabilities bring to the workforce.”

The overall message of the day was one of tolerance and respect. Employers are being encouraged to hire those with disability and to look beyond the surface of each individual.

Linda Davis, of the Montana State Government Diversity Program, said, “They are part of our labor force, and an asset, and we should do more, to encourage people to apply for jobs, and to employ people.”

At the seminar, it was emphasized that employing more people with disability will drive the economic development of the state as a whole, therefore benefiting all Montanans in the long run.

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