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The Disabled Make A Difference

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By JANE JOHNSON

Published: October 2, 2007

October is an eventful month for the disability community in Florida. Not only is it national 'Disability Employment Awareness Month,' but the 2007 Florida Legislature also designated Oct. 1-15 as 'Disability Awareness and History Weeks.' Additionally, every year the third Wednesday in October officially commemorates Disability Mentoring Day.

These three events provide opportunities to recognize the contributions that individuals with disabilities have made - and continue to make - in business, education and society in general. There are more than 3 million individuals with disabilities in Florida.

During October, I challenge readers to become more aware of disability in your community and society, whether you hire a person with a disability, get to know someone with a disability or simply research a particular disability that you would like to know more about. Your life will be enriched by the experience.

Now is a good time to review hiring practices throughout the state to make sure diversity plans include those with disabilities. For most people whose disability makes it difficult to obtain employment, once they are able to secure a position, they are less likely to take their job for granted. They typically go above and beyond expectations to prove their value. Employment statistics have consistently revealed that people with disabilities have lower rates of absenteeism and demonstrate a higher degree of loyalty and commitment to their jobs.

If you are a Florida employer, do yourself and your organization a favor and hire a person with a disability.

Jane Johnson is director of the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, which serves about 35,000 Floridians with development disabilities, including mental retardation, autism, cerebral play, spina bifida and other Prade-Willi syndrome. For more informatio

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