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October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
To commemorate, North Central Sight Services is educating the community about the workforce capabilities of people who are blind while celebrating achievements of its own employees throughout the month, the organization said in a recent press release.
For 66 years, NCSS -- based in Williamsport and serving Lycoming, Tioga, Bradford, Centre, Sullivan and Clinton counties -- has provided services that help people who are blind or visually impaired achieve greater economic independence, the release said. Through its social enterprise, NCSS provides products to federal and state agencies as well as commercial businesses.
Seventy-five percent of direct labor employees working in this program are blind or visually impaired.
"The national unemployment rate for people who are blind or visually impaired is 70%. That is unacceptable," said Kim Zimmer, president and CEO, NCSS, according to the press release. "People who are blind or visually impaired want to work and are capable. Our employees are committed to continually delivering high quality products and services. The success of our agency demonstrates the value they bring to the workplace. Employers have a huge opportunity with this under-tapped workforce."
This year's theme for NDEAM is Advancing Access and Equity.
"An inclusive workforce is a strong workforce," the press release said. "It is critical to recognize the importance of ensuring all people have equal opportunity to contribute their skills and talents by providing the resources needed to succeed. NDEAM counters negative attitudes and misunderstandings that persist and lead to unequal employment opportunities for people with disabilities."
"National Disability Employment Awareness Month marks one of the most important times of the year for our agency," said Katie Coffey, marketing manager. "NCSS is dedicated to offering competitive career paths for people who are blind, and NDEAM provides an excellent opportunity to highlight the capabilities of our employees."
For more information about North Central Sight Service, visit www.ncsight.org or call 570-323-9401.