Intellectual disabilities and mental illness used to be “in the closet”, allowing many of us to ignore them. That is changing and I think we’re all becoming aware of how many people’s lives are directly or indirectly impacted. I think that’s a good thing for a number of reasons. Greater awareness will improve understanding and hopefully increase the availability of support services. It may take longer but greater awareness should eventually make others aware of the ROI associated with these constituencies. See my posts on the value of cognitive diversity and individuals who are differently-abled. I’d like to make you aware of two relevant resources.
I recently had the pleasure of attending a presentation by the Lenape Valley Foundation. Borrowing directly from their website:
For over half a century, Lenape Valley Foundation has provided assistance, compassion, and hope to thousands of children, adults and families within its community. <They> offer services related to mental health, substance use, intellectual disability and early intervention.
On the journey to recovery, Lenape Valley Foundation strives to help each client find hope, a renewed spirit, a revived sense of dignity, and the opportunity to live a full and productive life.
If you or a loved one would benefit from this type of support and live in or near Bucks County, Pennsylvania, I’d highly recommend a visit.
The other resource is OurAbility, a wonderful website created by John Robinson. Earlier this year, Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 was amended. The revision includes guidance that companies which do business with the government should aim for 7% utilization of people who are disabled. John’s website is a database of individuals who have self-identified as disabled. It focuses on strengths rather than weaknesses and is a marvelous resource for companies seeking to meet the Section 503 guidance.
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