By MIKE BENBOW
Herald Writer
In a region and a country where businesses are crying out for good workers, a lot of them are being overlooked, most notably the disabled, advocates say.
"They just don’t get a fair chance unless we educate the employer," said Barbara Barrett, executive director of Washington Vocational Services.
Barrett said the labor shortage has helped a bit, but up to 65 percent of the people with disabilities are still out of work.
"It’s easier, but it’s still a challenge," she said.
Barrett served as chairwoman Thursday of the 10th annual Supported Employment Conference, a chance for those in the field and others to learn more about jobs for people with disabilities.
It was also a time to honor businesses in northwest Washington that have hired workers with disabilities and worked to ensure their success on the job through such things as installing special equipment or providing ongoing training.
Honorees included:
The recipients sounded a common theme: Their disabled workers were among their most dependable and hardest-working, and having them on the job was a delight.
"We have been the lucky ones," said Carol Macdonald of Hearthside.
Lynn Wikstrom, executive director of Work Opportunities, said the companies recognized Thursday were those that "stepped forward and recognized the value of individuals."
"They look beyond the disability and see what skills the person has," Barrett said.
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