Tartaglione’s annual Disability Employment Awareness event unites accessibility service providers from across the Commonwealth

HARRISBURG, PA, October 23, 2017 – Pennsylvania Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione’s annual Disability Employment Awareness Day connected hundreds of State Capitol visitors with advocacy organizations from across the Commonwealth this afternoon.

A dozen public and private-sector providers teamed up to offer guests comprehensive information about a wide array of accessibility products and services, all with the shared goal of helping people with physical and cognitive challenges find and retain meaningful employment. The cause is very personal to Senator Tartaglione, who has spent the last 14 years overcoming the spinal injuries she suffered in a 2003 boating accident. 

“People living with physical or cognitive disabilities fulfill a vital role in Pennsylvania’s workforce and they should be given every opportunity to take advantage of the many services and accessibility devices available to them,” Senator Tartaglione said. “Our annual Disability Employment Awareness Day is a great way for advocates to network with the constituents they serve.”

Today’s presenters included public agencies such as the Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation and Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing; medical providers like MossRehab; academic institutions including Temple University’s Institute on Disabilities; and financial resource providers such as the Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation. Three service dogs in training – Ajax, Aero and Rugby –also graced the Capitol Rotunda with their enthusiastic presence courtesy of Susquehanna Service Dogs.

“We have one office in King of Prussia but we have a statewide influence. Doing outreach is always challenging for us, but (today’s event) certainly connects us with people,” PATF Operations Director Tracy Beck said.

“Today we’re really focused on employment,” added Cynthia Lashinsky of POVR. “Our director, David DeNotaris, believes access equals success. We make sure people have the training and skills they need, whether it involves technology, getting from point A to point B or writing a resume – whatever they need to get back to work.”

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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Bill Kenny at 215-533-0440 or email at William.kenny@pasenate.com.