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ALBANY, NY (WENY) – This week, Gov. Kathy Hochul proclaimed October disability employment awareness month. And as the month commences, advocates like ARC Chemung-Schuyler are emphasizing the importance of breaking down stigmas.
“There are judgments made before knowing what a person might be capable of, which isn’t necessarily a fair assessment,” said Nicole Brown, Director of Employment and Career Services at ARC Chemung-Schuyler.
Brown added that awareness is also important to make employers more knowledgeable and open minded to having a diverse workforce that includes people with disabilities.
ARC of Chemung-Schuyler currently supports 150 individuals with varying abilities who are in multiple programs ranging from paid internships, jobs, and post-secondary education transitions.
Brown said their services range from helping people apply and interview for positions to self-advocacy, how to read a paycheck, and selecting benefits.
ARC of Chemung-Schuyler works with individuals who find employment in all types of industries including genetic science, retail, customer service, animal support, etc. Brown said they also provide education training support.
“They want to work, they want to be there, they want to learn. They want that sense of inclusion in the community,” Brown said.
Disability employment awareness will bring a bigger impact for the community by providing a sense of belonging, she said.
For more information about services at ARC Chemung-Schuyler, you can visit their website.
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