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The Florida Grantor, Summer 2007

Footnotes

Governor Crist Creates The Governor's Commission on Disabilities

On July 17, 2007, the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Governor Charlie Crist signed Executive Order 07-148, which established The Governor's Commission on Disabilities. The commission is designed to advance public policy and work with state agencies and organizations on behalf of Floridians with disabilities.

Lance Block, a life-long advocate for the rights of the developmentally disabled, will serve as chairman of the commission. Appointed by the Governor, the 19-member commission will work with the disability community to assist them in speaking with one voice when addressing state government.

"The Commission will represent Florida's disability community as a whole, ensuring that all Floridians have equal access to education and employment information regarding resources, services and opportunities to fully participate in all aspects of life." said Governor Crist.

Members of the commission have backgrounds that have served various interests and issues affecting the disability community. Thus, ensuring a unique representation for individuals with disabilities across the state of Florida.

For more information about the Governor's Commission on Disabilities, please visit www.flgov.com.

ODEP Announces Theme for 2007 Employment Awareness Month

U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Elaine L. Chao has selected the official theme for National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) 2007, "Workers with Disabilities: Talent for a Winning Team."

The 2007 poster, depicting this year's theme, is now available. In addition to its representation of the national NDEAM theme, this poster is popular throughout the year in connection with events that foster employment opportunities for workers with disabilities. For copies of the 2007 poster, visit www.dol.gov/odep.

International Transition Conference Coming to Florida

The Division on Career Development and Transition will host its International Conference from October 18-20, 2007, at the Walt Disney World Contemporary Resort in Orlando.

The conference will feature the latest information on proven strategies for improving services to children and youth with disabilities and/or those who are gifted.

Conference workshops will address self-determination, community and family partnerships in transition, program evaluation models and data-based decision making, as well as, legislation and policy updates on IDEA, NCLB and WIA.

The Division on Career Development and Transition promotes national and international efforts to improve the quality of and access to, career/vocational and transition services for persons with disabilities. For more information, visit www.dcdt.org.