Opportunities

I believe if you make your own you will get noticed. Most of the "working world" finds a company to hire them and that is the opportunity. Then there are those who march to the beat of their own drummers and make their own opportunities. There are those who fall into the category in between who are seeking company employment but until they reach that point they create something during the time in between. That project gets noticed and then in turn they do also. I attend as many meetings and programs in my field as possible with the goal of finding a company that believes in what I am doing. There are at least three benefits to taking that route. First, you will have something to show a person which may lead to a company during your downtime. Two, you will be too busy to be too depressed. Third, you show your dedication since you are doing real work while you aren't traditionally employed. They say that finding a job is a full time job, it is, but why not have the employer come to you because of what you are already doing. Make your own opportunities. I do that by conducting disability presentations, projects, and events. One never knows but it seems to be working.

Speaking

The little speech this morning for "Lighten Up Lancaster" May lead to a few more contacts I can collaborate with in the near future. It was a big deal that they even included disability in with their other programs; it's usually overlooked. People should at least hear about it and I think it would be nice to push the "Working on Wheels" program. I see it being an ongoing activity that can incorporate a lot of people from different organizations and businesses. I am determined to figure out a way to start it. It should not be too hard; if I could just find a few teens to roll through the mall it could become quite interesting. I also plan to create projects with the gran topics. That will bring Infobility in the forefront. Tomorrow I will meet a slew of other companies and hopefully one will participate in Friday's recognition program since the 2 I counted on were never asked.

Meetings

I goo to as many appropriate ones in or near Lancaster as possible. I just attended one about a new initiative to start dialogue on mental health issues. There I met an ex Col of the Air Force and I was able to interest her in a grant for veterans. It's great to be helpful and hopefully be able to connect with her on a professional level. The concept of Change direction is super easy and logical. The more people who talk openly of mental illness, the better off we'll all be. In most cases the real cure is simple- just bring it up. Both sides must not be afraid and it can save lives; suicide is a huge issue. I will alert people who I know that I'm sure will get involved. It will help me meet more good people and eventually I will spread the idea that people with physical disabilities need that kind of help.

Perspectives

"Working on Wheels" is an experiential program to understand how to manage in a wheelchair. It is about how much a person who is able to accomplish despite not using legs to get around. I have not done it in awhile, my focus is disability awareness programs. The local newspaper is interested in talking with someone who participated in the particular program. I asked a few people and reactions are interesting. I hope to dispel myths with this activity. If the event is going shopping the focus should be on having fun. It's not meant to be uncomfortable or upsetting, I want to learn how to approach it differently and ease society's minds on the topic. Perhaps if people do it together in groups of friends but that could increase stranger's curiosity and likelihood to stare. I must find a better way to do this- maybe this is the key inclusion.

Sharing funding

Today I contacted three different people who ran organizations that would fit four of the 19 grants. Each person was happy to hear from me and promised to inquire then start the application process. I am done finding funding for people. I really hope at least one of them get approved Each of them are good people and this will put me in a good light with each of them. "Veteran Supports" this man is in Altoona and is about the only living person, who my friend the Marine respects. I told him I wanted to start a Wounded Warrior but the organization didn't want that. He suggested we start something similar. Finally me friend may become motivated again. "Civic Engagement" this man is CEO of Bayada and he wants to bring the habilitation program to Lancaster. He promised to keep in touch before today; now I'm sure he will. This would be another outreach experience, I'd love it. "Meaningful Day" this man was concerned about the mandated change for the sheltered workshop to become more inclusive. I told him that I had ideas for making that happen.

Editorial

since I can't count on the newspaper I wrote this article. I actively believe in gratitude, so when someone does something in public that really helps me I often say thank you formally. In honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month there will be a Lunch & Learn event for the public to recognize some of the local employers who have hired people with disabilities. I realize the law (Americans with Disabilities Act) mandates equal hiring practices but if we want more employers to go the extra distance for people who may need some extra understanding then shouldn't it be both ways? If you'd like to join this unique celebration downtown let me know.

Progress

Last night as soon as I got cleared to enter the Giant Arena in Hershey to see Carries Underwood I was asked to show my ticket so it could be scanned. The employee who did that job had an intellectual disability- wow it made me feel so good. Not only was he working in the community but 11,000+ fans saw him! That was such wonderful exposure for the disability employment movement! It was a wonderful way to start National Disability Employment Awareness Month, which is all of October. The end of the month is my own program and I will do my best to reach out to the man,his job coach,the agency,and the manager of the arena; I would love for them to speak. After I learned that Erie will be location of the Pennsylvania Disability Employment Summit I said "I would love to have a mini PADES" well, things said in gest are said best. I'm going to make some calls.