'Ask T.E.D.' Chat by GDOL on Workers With Disabilities

The Georgia Department of Labor is hosting an online chat about “Profit by Investing in Workers with Disabilities” from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 28 on the GDOL Web site www.dol.state.ga.us.

According to state Labor Commissioner Mark Butler, the chat--with a focus on workers with disabilities--comes as the nation prepares to observe National Disability Employment Month in October.

“This live chat will help employers and job seekers learn more about business incentives and support services for workers with disabilities,” Butler said in a press release. “Hiring people with disabilities makes good business sense, because inexpensive, simple modifications in a work area will help employers hire available, skilled, and dedicated employees.”

The 90-minute Q & A chat, dubbed “Ask T.E.D."(Type, explore, discover) focuses on the disabled workforce. GDOL has trained staff members able to help workers with disabilities acquire the skills needed to become employed.

During the chat, information will be provided on such subjects as the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) program for employers, Job Accommodation Network (JAN) on workplace accommodations and how to eliminate barriers to employment. It will also provide information on resources to pay for assistive technology, workplace and classroom training, the Ontario Associations Supporting Individuals with Special Needs (OASIS) program on career guidance and respect for people with disabilities.

Employers, job seekers and workforce professionals are encouraged to participate. Advanced questions can be submitted on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Georgia.Department.of.Labor and Twitter at @GeorgiaDOL To sign up for a reminder, or sign into the chat on the day of the event, go to the Spotlight or Quick Links sections on the GDOL Web site at www.dol.state.ga.us