2007 FLAPSE Conference in Orlando
The 2007 Florida Association for Persons in Supported Employment (APSE) Conference kicks off today, and Assistant Director Jenny Lee and I are attending as representatives of Creative Clay.
So why are we at this conference? Creative Clay has been looking to expand into the field of supported employment for its members. This would mean that member artists at Creative Clay would have the opportunity to receive vocational training and support in finding and maintaining employment in the community. This conference will serve as a “jumping off point” for Creative Clay staff to begin working on an implementation strategy for this revolutionary service. In the coming months, Creative Clay anticipates having 12 or more members involved in supported employment services, thanks to a generous employment grant from the Able Trust, and we have many eager candidates, ready to embark on this new endeavor with us!
The opening keynote speaker was Mr. Dale Dileo. He spoke about inclusion of people with disabilities in the workplace. He is a well-known advocate for persons with disabilities, and he has presented both nationally and internationally. In his presentation, DiLeo spoke about the segregation that occurs in schools, workplaces, and the community, and how we can work together to achieve full integration and acceptance. He emphasized that everyone is employable, that it is a common value and a right to have a job. You can read more about Dale DiLeo at www.daledileo.com, or check out his book, Raymond’s Room.
-Sommer Paquet
Program Manager