Oregon Employment Department celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Oregon Employment Department is observing National Disability Employment Awareness Month this October by highlighting the workforce contributions of individuals with disabilities. This year's theme for the awareness month is “Celebrating Value and Talent.”

WorkSource Oregon, a statewide partnership that includes the department's Workforce Operations division, operates 37 centers across the state. The network provides free employment services for job seekers with disabilities while helping local businesses recruit and retain skilled workers.

Job seekers can meet one-on-one with WorkSource Oregon staff to set career goals and develop job search plans. Staff members assist with resumes, applications and interview preparation, while offering access to career exploration, training and workplace resources.

Andrew R. Stolfi serves as the director of the Oregon Employment Department. “Oregon's workforce is stronger when people have opportunities to use their skills, build careers and contribute to their communities,” Stolfi said. “We're honored to help job seekers with disabilities connect with opportunities to thrive in the workplace and with partner agencies for added support.”

The statewide system collaborates with specialized programs across Oregon. Key partners include the Oregon Department of Human Services' Vocational Rehabilitation program, which helps remove barriers to employment and the Oregon Commission for the Blind, which provides skills training, job search assistance and workplace support for eligible blind Oregonians.

WorkSource Oregon also assists businesses seeking to improve their recruitment, hiring and retention practices to expand opportunities for workers with disabilities. Jim Pfarrer is the director of Workforce Operations. “Every job seeker brings different skills, experiences and goals to their job search,” Pfarrer said. “We help job seekers with disabilities explore career opportunities, prepare for employment and connect with employers. We also work with our partners to make sure people can access the services and support they need to succeed.”

To ensure access for all Oregonians, centers offer free accommodations, including sign language and spoken-language interpreters, as well as materials in audio, large print and other formats. Services and center locations are accessible online at WorkSourceOregon.org or by calling 503-947-1680.