URBANA, Ill. - Workforce development programs are now more equally accessible to persons with varying abilities, with the goal of helping every person prepare for, find, and maintain quality employment that pays a living wage and offers opportunities for advancement. The Americans with Disability Act tools and practices are used by organizations, institutions, and government agencies to maintain and improve accessibility. 

In this webinar, Sherry Sparks, workforce development unit manager from the Illinois Department of Rehabilitation Services (DRS), will address inclusion strategies for persons with disabilities. University of Illinois Extension’s Local Government Education webinar series, Disabilities in Workforce Development Programming, will be offered free online at noon, April 23. Register prior to the webinar

The DRS is the state’s lead agency serving persons with disabilities. Staff work one-on-one with individuals and their families to empower them to reach their employment, education, and independent living goals.

“Staff work closely with state, regional and local employers and partner agencies to connect employers and qualified employees,” says Nancy Ouedraogo, Extension community and economic development specialist, “allowing people with disabilities to find and maintain quality employment that pays a living wage.”

University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, please contact Nancy Ouedraogo at esarey@illinois.edu at least 48 hours in advance.

About the speaker:
Sherry Sparks currently serves as the workforce development unit manager for the Division of Rehabilitation Services. She previously served as the supervisor for the Quincy and Macomb offices of DRS and was also a vocational rehabilitation counselor. She has previously worked for the Illinois Department of Employment Services as a program and service representative, served as Director of Community and Continuing Education for John Wood Community College, and was the promotions/development director for the Quincy Family YMCA and associate director of the United Way of Adams County.

Source: Nancy Ouedraogo
Extension Community and Economic Development Specialist