Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Awarded the 'Organization Award for 2016'

HARRISBURG, Pa., Aug. 16, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Department of Labor & Industry's Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) recently received The National Association of Multicultural Rehabilitation Concerns' (NAMRC) "Organization Award for 2016," recognizing organizations that have had a major positive impact on multicultural populations with disabilities.

"OVR does an excellent job of helping individuals with physical and/or intellectual disabilities transition into the workforce," said Department of Labor & Industry Secretary Kathy Manderino. "I am very proud to see them receive this wonderful recognition for the good work they do daily to help residents live full, independent lives."

OVR assists individuals with disabilities in obtaining and maintaining employment and independence. Last year alone, OVR helped nearly 8,800 customers find jobs and assisted more than 5,000 employers with hiring people with disabilities, returning $54 million in state and federal taxes.

OVR was nominated by, among others, Dr. Keith Wilson of Southern Illinois University, who remarked, "The 'demonstrated leadership by example, signifying practices or activities worthy of emulation' is truly a concept exemplified by many in OVR."

"I believe that access equals success," said OVR Executive Director David DeNotaris.  "When we can help individuals with disabilities access the same information as their classmates, neighbors, colleagues and peers, then they can get the same education, training opportunities and jobs as their peers.

"OVR is so grateful to NAMRC for the recognition and award. We look forward to continuing to be leaders in rehabilitation and encouraging staff to believe in the potential of individuals with disabilities." For more information on NAMRC, visit http://namrc.org.

MEDIA CONTACT: Sara Goulet, 717-787-7530

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry