A message from PAID's Founder and CEO,
In the early 90’s, President George Bush made a commitment to individuals with disabilities across our country in promising that the “shameful wall of exclusion would come down.” This wall that he spoke of represents the barriers, unreasonable obstacles, and in some instances, ignorance that excludes those who are disabled from becoming active participants in mainstream society. Nowhere has this “wall’s” presence been more apparent than in the employment arena. Now, too many years after former President Bush’s promise, the unemployment rate for those with disabilities remains near 70 percent. The “wall” clearly has not come down, and that is what the Pennsylvania Association for Individuals with Disabilities seeks to accomplish.
Our organization was founded by volunteers from all walks of life, some with disabilities and some without, who recognize what needs to be done to grow the percentage of individuals with disabilities in our nation’s workforce. We must increase the understanding among employers that employing a qualified individual with a disability is not an act of charity. It is a responsible, cost-efficient decision that enhances a workplace and its productivity. We will also work to ensure that those with disabilities preparing to enter the workforce are prepared and motivated in their determination to contribute to our nation’s workforce and the economy.
Through our programs, education, and awareness efforts, PAID seeks to be a significant part of the effort that brings the wall of exclusion to the ground…one job, one day, one brick at a time.
Employing individuals with disabilities is the right thing to do, and I invite all who visit our Website or come in contact with our organization to become a part of what will make this happen.
Sincerely,
Carmen V. Scialabba
PAID Founder and CEO