Disability Matters

Established in 1993, Mental Disability Rights International (MDRI) documents conditions, publishes reports on human rights enforcement, and promotes international oversight of the rights of people with mental disabilities. Joining Joyce is Laurie Ahern, Associate Director of MDRI.

David Tobiczyk, Vice President of Marketing and Development for Goodwill Industries of Pittsburgh, joins Joyce. Discussed on the show, will be the mission of Goodwill Industries, as well as the Power of Work Awards. Sponsored by Goodwill Industries of Pittsburgh, the Power of Work Awards honor employers who help people with special needs overcome barriers to employment.

Joining Joyce is Jane Rath, Project Manager for the Employer Assistance and Recruiting Network (EARN). EARN connects employers with workforce talent and solutions. Established in 2001, and sponsored by the Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy, EARN works through its nationwide network to link employers with educated, motivated, and dedicated employment candidates.

Joining Joyce is Stephen M. Schmerin of the Department of Labor & Industry for the State of Pennsylvania. Secretary Schmerin views the Department of Labor & Industry's mission as a vital role in Governor Rendell's effort to promote the growth of business and the creation of jobs that will place the Commonwealth in position to compete in the global economy.

Joyce interviews Cathy Healy, the Program Officer for the Center for Workforce Preparation (CWP) in Washington, D.C. CWP's mission is to develop workforce strategies for businesses, chambers of commerce, and communities to hire, train, retain, and advance skilled workers in the 21st century.

The Kids Speak Up! Campaign provides an opportunity for young people between the ages of 7 and 16 years of age to go to Washington, D.C. to meet with their elected officials and to help the Foundation present the need for a better public understanding of epilepsy and research toward a cure. Joining Joyce is Nichelle Schoultz, State Relations and Grassroots Manager for the National Epilepsy Foundation and Activities Coordinator for the Speak Up Speak Out advocacy campaign, including Kids Speak Up!, and Brady Stevenson and Matt Wurzer, two student participants in the Kids Speak Up! Campaign. Ms. Schoultz monitors state and federal issues, primarily involving access to health care.

Founded in 1982, the National Organization on Disability (N.O.D.) represents the interests of 54 million people with disabilities – a large proportion of America's consumers, as well as an untapped labor market. N.O.D. works with business leaders, corporations, associations, and schools to improve work opportunities for Americans with disabilities, who are employed at dramatically lower rates than the non-disabled. Join Joyce and Alan Reich, President of the N.O.D as they discuss the mission of the N.O.D. and how business owners can help.

Robert L. Cartlidge, National Tour Director of the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) Bass Tournament, and Paul Julian, employee of Bender Consulting Services, Inc. and recent 2nd place winner at the PVA 4th Annual Grand National Bass Fishing Championship in Orlando, Florida join Joyce to discuss this special event.