Arnold Center commemorates 30th anniversary of Americans with Disabilities Act

MIDLAND, M.I., July 5, 2020 -- The 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) comes at a pivotal time as people with disabilities see unexpected increases in unemployment numbers due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Arnold Center recognizes the importance of the landmark legislation as the organization drives toward the creation of a more inclusive workforce for people with disabilities.

According to the June 5 Bureau of Labor Statistics report, 27.7% of working-age professionals with disabilities are employed, a decrease of 9.8% from this same time last year. These numbers highlight the need for a more inclusive workforce. From its inception, the ADA has focused on ensuring that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else. This historic civil rights legislation prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and all public and private places that are open to the public.

“This milestone is a good time to reflect on the strides that our country and region has made in promoting equality for people with disabilities and also to recognize how much more needs to be done to create employment opportunities for those in the disability community,” said Jennifer Grace, Executive Director of the Arnold Center.

The Arnold Center is proud to support employment training and opportunities for this talented workforce by connecting persons with disabilities to jobs through its regional business affiliates and partner agencies.

During COVID-19 the work of people with disabilities has proven to be crucial. These essential individuals have provided critical services to help keep critical businesses operating, including janitorial and custodial services, manufacturing, and more.

As the nation commemorates the ADA’s 30-year anniversary, the Arnold Center continues to expand its efforts to create meaningful employment opportunities for those in the disability community. Arnold Center is expanding its efforts and research on the future of work and the use of emerging technologies that enable people with disabilities to demonstrate the unique value they can bring to the workplace.

Arnold Center, Inc.
400 Wexford Avenue
Midland, MI 48460

Contact: Tony Mediate
(989) 631-9570 [ext. 16]
tmediate@arnoldcenter.org
www.arnoldcenter.org

The Arnold Center is a community rehabilitation organization with locations in Midland and Gladwin, MI that provides services to individuals with barriers to employment. These programs are designed to strengthen the community through advancing the skills of those that are most vulnerable. Our service programs increase self-sufficiency skills that strengthen independence, vocational abilities, soft skills and community engagement.

This release was published on openPR.