As part of the upcoming October observance of National Disability Employment Awareness (NDEA) Month, the Alabama Governor’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities, a program of the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS), will have 14 special events around the state.
The events will honor the success and contributions of individuals with disabilities in the workforce and recognize businesses that provide opportunities for successful employment for people with disabilities.
This year’s theme is “Expect. Employ. Empower.”
“Alabamians with disabilities are being trained for jobs in every business sector, and employers are realizing that by employing them, they are empowering them to be more independent and self-sufficient,” said Peggy Anderson, ADRS administrator for business relations.
Awards will be presented in 11 different categories and salute contributions from community partners, youth, educators, the news media, and local professionals. More than 100 awards will be given throughout the state. Local winners will compete for statewide recognition at a special event at the Capitol later this year.
The Alabama Governor’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities was created by former Gov. Jim Folsom in the late 1940s as a response to veterans with disabilities who returned home to find no work available. Since that time, many individuals with disabilities – veterans as well as civilians – have received the benefit of Governor’s Committee activities. The committee coordinates a network of local volunteer groups throughout the state and works closely with ADRS staff to develop employment opportunities and raise awareness of the needs and rights of Alabamians with disabilities.
Schedule of NDEAM Events
Wednesday, Oct. 8, 11:30
Cypress Lakes Country Club, Muscle Shoals
Thursday, Oct. 9, 11:30
Capital City Club, Montgomery
Wednesday, Oct. 15, 11:00
Community Room, Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services, Huntsville
Wednesday, Oct. 15, 11:30
East Alabama Medical Center Resource Center, Opelika
Thursday, Oct. 16, 12:00
E.H. Gentry Technical Facility cafetorium, Talladega
Friday, Oct. 17, 11:30
Heron Lakes Country Club, Mobile
Wednesday, Oct. 22, 11:30
Turner Surles Community Center, Decatur
Wednesday, Oct. 22, 1:00
Veterans Administration Medical Center Sports Atrium, Tuscaloosa
Thursday, Oct. 23, 11:30
Shaw Industries Recreation Building, Andalusia
Friday, Oct. 24, 2:00
Dothan Chamber of Commerce
Tuesday, Oct. 28, 11:30
Houston Cole Library, Jacksonville State University
Wednesday, Oct. 29, 10:30
Gadsden Chamber of Commerce
Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2:00
Fort Payne City Hall
Friday, Oct. 31, 11:30
Cahaba Grand, Birmingham
