Genesis Development is participating in National Disability Employment Awareness Month, an annual awareness campaign that takes place each October.
The purpose of National Disability Employment Awareness Month is to educate the public about employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America’s workers with disabilities. This year’s theme is “Inclusion Drives Innovation.”
“Americans of all abilities must have access to good, safe jobs,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta. “Smart employers know that including different perspectives in problem-solving situations leads to better solutions. Hiring employees with diverse abilities strengthens their business, increases competition and drives innovation.
Reflecting this year’s themes, Genesis Development has always worked toward inclusion and innovation in the work force in Greene County. The employment services department in Jefferson began in 1985 and currently as 13 peoples working jobs in the community. In addition, Genesis Development is serving 10 high school students with disabilities in both the Experienced Based Career Exploration program and the Making the Grade program in cooperating with Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation Services.
Alicia Simons started in one of Genesis Development’s job development programs. She had some experience working in a courtesy position and wanted to continue in that. Simons was encouraged to try some new opportunities and was pleased to find out she enjoyed working in the food industry. Simons utilized her learned skills and began work as a dishwasher at the Uptown Café in July. She likes her job and her coworkers. Simons wants to work her way up to food prep in the kitchen.
“Genesis Development is proud to be a part of this year’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month and was they can promote its messages – during October and throughout the year – by visiting www.dol.gov/ndeam. To learn more about Genesis Development, visit www.genesisdevelopment.com
