“National Disability Employment Awareness Month is an opportunity to recognize not only the talents and contributions of individuals with disabilities, but also the importance of the partnerships that help create opportunities for them.”
said Commissioner Felicia W. Johnson.
Johnson’s remarks came during the South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Association’s annual conference, held Oct. 14–16 in North Augusta. The three-day event brought together rehabilitation professionals, students, workforce partners and business leaders to focus on employment opportunities, community partnerships and disability inclusion as part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM).
Students Participate in First Roll & Stroll Event
A key component of the conference was the first-ever Roll & Stroll on Thursday, Oct. 15. Organized in partnership with Aiken County Public Schools, the event featured a pep rally and a walk around SRP Park involving middle and high school students from the area.
The celebration included performances by the North Augusta High School cheerleaders and the Midland Valley High School drumline. Southern Soul recording artist Douglas Furtick, known as 803 Fresh, served as the event’s Grand Marshal. Furtick, a former consumer of Vocational Rehabilitation, participated in a conversation with Commissioner Johnson regarding his personal journey and the impact of rehabilitation services.
Roundtable Discusses Employment for Individuals with Disabilities
The conference highlighted the South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Department’s (SCVRD) mission to assist individuals with disabilities in maintaining, obtaining, and preparing for employment.
As part of this effort, Terra Carroll, CEO and President of the North Augusta Chamber of Commerce, moderated “The Workforce Playbook: Employer Partner Roundtable.” The discussion focused on workforce needs, employer engagement, and ways to link individuals with disabilities to meaningful employment. The panel included:
- Andre Anderson, Workforce Development Administrator with the Lower Savannah Council of Governments
- Amanda Atwell of Chartwells.
- Sara Wilson, Business Development Specialist with SCVRD’s Aiken Area Office.
Commissioner Johnson stated that whether the department is working with businesses to meet workforce needs or helping students prepare for jobs, the goal is helping people achieve greater independence through meaningful employment.
