In recognition of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Opportunities, Inc. dedicated the week of October 24-28 as "My Work. My Choice. Recognition Week." The agency proudly celebrated the hard work and achievements of all the individuals who participate in their work training services, as well as giving recognition to their choice to have a full array of employment services to partake in.
Opportunities, Inc. hosted daily activities, had visits from special guests, and held voter training sessions to promote citizenship and the right to vote. Tuesday and Thursday of the recognition week were designated as "Work with Your Legislator Day". The agency invited area legislators to come work onsite to experience the positive impact their services have on individuals who find work purposeful and fulfilling.
Representative Horlacher commented, "I've been a big supporter of Opportunities, Inc. in the past and continue to do so because of the great work they do in our community and in making sure that folks that want to work have the opportunity to do so. I've met a lot of great people who absolutely love it. The friendships and relationships they make here sustain their entire time." The individuals who were able to work alongside him were more than thrilled to show a legislator the different jobs that they do and how to do them.
Representative Sargent visited Opportunities, Inc.'s in Madison on Tuesday, where she took part in learning multiple training jobs. The individuals taught her the steps needed for each job and that it's not as easy as it looks.
Senator Nass came on Thursday to Opportunities, Inc.'s in Fort Atkinson. He was shown how to assemble name tag neck straps and was given praise for his good work by the surrounding individuals. "It certainly has helped me to appreciate everything that goes on at Opportunities, Inc. and how important it is for all of the people who have the opportunity to work here," Nass stated. One the individuals, Doris, who worked beside him commented, "It's nice to have Senator Nass here so he can learn what we do and then he can go back and tell the others about Opportunities, Inc."
Held each October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month is a national campaign that raises awareness about disability employment issues and celebrates the many and varied contributions of America's workers with disabilities. Since 1966, Opportunities, Inc. has been providing services for individuals for the purpose of maximizing their success and enhancing their abilities to be independent, contributing members of the community. They serve over 3,000 individuals annually in vocational training and employment outreach.