Workshop in Sumter to provide services to individuals with disabilities
Individuals with disabilities are invited to a workshop in Sumter aimed at helping potential employees learn what they need to know about the hiring process and resources available to them.
The SC Disability Employment Coalition will host "Disability Benefits & Employment: Make It Work for You!" on Thursday, Aug. 8, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Central Carolina Technical College's Advanced Manufacturing Technology Training Center, 853 Broad St. The free workshop, which is part of Hire Me SC campaign - a multi-year, statewide workforce development campaign to change the culture of disability employment - will explore myths of how work affects disability benefits, according to a news release.
State and private organizations will be on site to discuss the services they offer to individuals with disabilities who are interested in returning to work or increasing their earnings. After the workshop, a resource fair will be held for those who want to connect directly with community organizations.
The SC Disability Employment Coalition was formed in 2014 to address employment barriers for individuals with disabilities in South Carolina and is made up of more than 40 stakeholders that represent employers, state and private agencies and individuals with disabilities throughout the state. The coalition is made possible with funding from the Administration for Community Living at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
"We are committed to educating people about their rights and the services available to support them in meeting their employment goals," said Sandy Jordan, director of employment programs with Able South Carolina.
Jordan said 70% of individuals with disabilities in the state are unemployed.
"But," Jordan said, "we know from experience if we eliminate barriers to employment access, these individuals can achieve success and bring value to employers."
To register for the workshop, go to http://bit.ly/Sumter19, call 1-800-681-6805 or email hiremesc@able-sc.org.