Rep. John Lewis Commemorates National Disability Employment Awareness Month

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month and an important time to recognize the continuing employment difficulties that face Americans with disabilities. Despite the ability and desire to work, people with disabilities face an estimated 65-percent unemployment rate.

In order to help bring more attention to this problem, Rep. John Lewis was named an AbilityOne Congressional Champion. Since 1938, the AbilityOne Program (formerly JWOD Program) has provided job training and employment opportunities for people who are blind or who have other severe disabilities. Last year, the AbilityOne Program served approximately 1,000 Georgians with disabilities and over 40,000 nationwide.

"Decent employment for a livable wage is a powerful way to affirm the contributions of citizens with disabilities," said Rep. Lewis. "Every human being has gifts to share with our society. We must make room for them, understand their issues and concerns, and find meaningful ways for Americans with disabilities to sustain the nation."

The program, which uses the purchasing power of the federal government to buy products and services from participating community-based nonprofit agencies, provides the opportunity to hone job skills while earning good wages and benefits. The end result is greater independence and quality of life for people with disabilities.

Rep. Lewis also maintains a close relationship with Bobby Dodd Institute, a community rehabilitation program in the 5th district that annually serves approximately 500 people with disabilities. Bobby Dodd Institute operates several AbilityOne contracts in the metro Atlanta area. Rep. Lewis actively works with the facility to identify employment opportunities for people with disabilities in the 5th District.

"The work of AbilityOne and the Bobby Dodd Institute gives meaning to those in our society who too often are left out and left behind," said Rep. Lewis. "I remain committed to do all I can to help our brothers and sisters, our sons and daughters, who live with disabilities."

####