IDHS Launches Public Awareness Campaign to Help People with Disabilities Find Employment Sept 29, 2011

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 29, 2011


IDHS Launches Public Awareness Campaign to Help People with Disabilities Find Employment
Billboards Will Feature Customer Success Stories

SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) is launching a new aspect of its public awareness campaign to help people with disabilities enter the workforce. A billboard campaign will officially begin October 1 and reach every region of the state.

“We want to spread the word about the many services DRS provides. We are working to build partnerships with employers to help more people with disabilities find good jobs,” said IDHS Secretary Michelle R. B. Saddler. “We hope that by seeing these amazing stories, people will learn how DRS vocational rehabilitation services have helped others and realize that their success can be your success.”

The billboard campaign is called “Have a Disability and Need a Job? My Success can be Your Success” and will feature pictures of successful customers from across the state. Their inspiring stories can be viewed at www.drs.illinois.gov/success.

DRS joined forces with TV and radio stations across the state to get the word out about the division’s Vocational Rehabilitation services. This summer, the department partnered with the Illinois Broadcasters Association to produce public service announcements to air on 20 TV and 200 radio stations statewide. DRS recorded testimonials from several customers who have successfully entered the workforce and employers who hired persons with disabilities.

DRS provides an array of services to people with disabilities including vocational counseling, college and vocational training and job placement services, as well as employer consultations and financial incentives. Last year, DRS helped more than 4,600 Illinoisans with disabilities find good paying jobs.

The public awareness campaign was funded by the federal American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA).

For more information, please visit: www.drs.illinois.gov/success.

Or call toll-free at (877) 761-9780, TTY: (866) 264-2149 or video: (866) 588-0401.