The Governor’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities (GCEPD) is currently seeking nominations for the 2012 Governor’s Awards. These awards will be presented to individuals, businesses, media or municipalities that have made significant contributions to the employment of people with disabilities during the period of January, 2010 through February 2012 . The nomination deadline for the 2012 awards is April 16, 2012. The awards will be handed out at the Creative Workforce Solutions Employment Institute III on June 4th, 2012 at theSheratonHotelConferenceCenterinBurlington.
The Governor’s Awards are given in three different categories.The Employment / Accommodation awardis for an employer who reflects the spirit of the Americans with Disabilities Act in their employment practices, including but not limited to: the provision of equal access in the application and interview process; the delivery of training that responds to individualized learning styles; the provision of accommodations; and the use of inclusive recruitment practices.
The Design/Accessibility awardis for the architect, contractor, business, municipality, recreational facility or entity that has created innovative and creative solutions for accessible structures, buildings or services or provided accommodations to create equal and aesthetic access.
The Media / Public Education awardrecognizes an individual or member of the media: a) who has brought attention to disability issues and stories, using sensitive and nondiscriminatory language to depict people with disabilities and to reflect the worth of the person(s) being written about; and/or b) who has promoted or showcased a person overcoming barriers in an inspiring way.
People are encouraged to nominateVermontbusinesses, individuals or municipalities that have contributed to the employment of people with disabilities. Since the GCEPD began presenting awards in 1989, over seventyVermontbusinesses and individuals have been honored.
The mission of the GCEPD is to promote the barrier-free employment of Vermonters of all abilities. This statewide committee provides: resource information and links to employment services; educational presentations; practical advice and real life solutions via our electronic newsletter and website; and direct communication to the office of the Governor regarding current issues affecting the employment of persons with disabilities.
For more information about the GCEPD or nominating procedures for the 2012 Awards, please go to the GCEPD website atwww.hireus.org, or contact Melita DeBellis, Executive Coordinator,[email protected]or802-434-6600.