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    Workforce Solutions East Texas and Vocational Rehabilitation Services Join Broad Effort to Observe National Disability Employment Awareness Month

    Workforce Solutions East Texas • Sep 27, 2021

    East Texas Celebration Event Will Take Place on October 5th

    Workforce Solutions East Texas (WSET) announces its partnership with Texas Workforce Solutions-Vocational Rehabilitation Services (TWS-VRS) to participate in National Disability Employment Awareness Month, an annual awareness campaign that takes place each October. The agencies will host a celebration event in East Texas on Tuesday, October 5, from 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. at the University of Texas at Tyler Ornelas Activity Center located at 3402 Old Omen Road. The purpose of National Disability Employment Awareness Month is to educate about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America's workers with disabilities. This year's theme is "America's Recovery: Powered by Inclusion." 


    We invite the public and East Texas employers to join the celebration, find talent in new places, and learn about programs to help your business find and train applicants. The event will feature a proclamation from the Tyler Mayor, Don Warren, a panel discussion with East Texas employers and agency leaders, and vendor booths. 


    "As a former hiring manager and HR professional, working with TWS-VR was an incredible experience, said Anne Cozart, TWS VRS Business Relations Coordinator. "We found dozens of great employees through the programs offered, and at no cost to us! Many businesses are unaware of this incredible resource for finding talent. I encourage all business owners who are hurting for employees to come and hear what we have to offer!"


    WSET partners with TWS-VRS to ensure that individuals with disabilities in our community have access to the array of workforce services we offer. Workforce Solutions staff may make referrals to TWS-VRS for job seekers with physical or mental disabilities to determine appropriate benefits and eligibility. Workforce Solutions staff may also receive referrals from TWS-VRS for VR customers who may be eligible to receive workforce services such as adult education and literacy services, childcare services, attend career workshops, training, and more. VR staff are often co-located in Workforce Solutions Offices and can provide information about how VR Services may help individuals with disabilities reach their employment goals. Together, our partnership is a win-win for Texans with disabilities seeking employment and for employers seeking to expand diversity and inclusion efforts by making their workforces inclusive of people with disabilities.


    "Workforce Solutions East Texas is proud to be a part of this year's National Disability Employment Awareness Month," said Student HireAbility Navigator Sonia White. "We want to spread the important message that we value all perspectives, including those of individuals with disabilities."


    The history of National Disability Employment Awareness Month traces back to 1945 when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October each year "National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week." In 1962, the word "physically" was removed to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month.


    Employers and employees in all industries can learn more about participating in National Disability Employment Awareness Month and ways they can promote its messages — during October and throughout the year — by visiting www.dol.gov/NDEAM.


    By Workforce Solutions East Texas 11 Apr, 2024
    Are you passionate about children and eager to positively impact their lives? Do you dream of opening your own child care center but feel overwhelmed by the process? Workforce Solutions East Texas Child Care Services (WSET-CCS) is here to help! Why Child Care? Starting a child care center is a significant undertaking, but it's achievable with the proper guidance and resources. WSET-CCS provides personal insights, practical tips, and expert advice to help you navigate the complexities of launching and managing a successful child care business. Partnering with Workforce Solutions East Texas Child Care Services We understand that turning your dream into reality requires more than passion and determination – it requires support and resources. Here's how WSET-CCS can help: Funding Assistance: Securing funding is often one of the biggest challenges for aspiring child care providers. Our team can guide you through grants and funding streams to support establishing and expanding child care centers. Whether you need help covering startup costs or investing in facility upgrades, we can guide you through the application process and connect you with the resources you need to succeed. Support Services: Starting a child care business involves many tasks, from developing a business plan to navigating regulatory requirements. Our team provides personalized support services to help you confidently tackle these challenges. Experienced staff offers guidance from licensing and accreditation to curriculum development and staff training, ensuring you have the knowledge and resources to operate a high-quality childcare center. Hiring Assistance: Building a team of qualified and dedicated staff is essential for the success of your child care center. Workforce Solutions East Texas offers recruitment and hiring assistance to help you find the right candidates for your organization. Whether you're looking for teachers, caregivers, or administrative staff, their job placement services can connect you with talented individuals who share your passion for early childhood education. Professional Development: Continuous learning and professional development are crucial to staying competitive in the child care industry. Our team provides resources for in-person and online training programs and workshops to help you enhance your skills and knowledge as a childcare provider. Our resources empower you to grow and thrive as a child care provider, from early childhood education best practices to business management strategies. Join Our Community! Are you ready to turn your vision of owning a child care center into a reality? We're here to support you every step of the way. Give us a call or meet with one of our staff members to learn more. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of children and families in our community. Let's embark on this exciting journey together!
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    By Workforce Solutions East Texas 11 Apr, 2024
    In the diverse landscape of neurodiversity, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) presents a unique set of challenges and strengths for individuals seeking employment. Just as each person with ASD is unique, their needs and aspirations in the workforce are too. Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) plays a crucial role in assisting individuals with ASD in their journey towards a successful career. VR counselors work hand in hand with individuals and contracted providers to explore job opportunities, evaluate accommodations, and create personalized employment plans. Supported Employment Services, a cornerstone of VR, offers structured guidance, enabling individuals to integrate into the workforce while gradually building their support networks. By considering geographical preferences, desired work hours, and on-the-job training goals, individuals with ASD can chart a course toward sustainable employment. This tailored approach ensures a smooth transition into the workforce, fostering a sense of confidence and competence. For more information and resources, consider reaching out to your local Vocational Rehabilitation Office. Remember, there's support available to help you navigate the path to employment with confidence. Visit www.easttexasworkforce.org/vocational-rehabilitation-services . 
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    By Workforce Solutions East Texas 05 Apr, 2024
    The National Association for the Education of Young Children invites you to celebrate and spotlight your classroom, advocacy, and family engagement activities during the Week of the Young Child (WOYC).
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