University Advancement

Public Relations and Strategic Communications

MEDIA RELEASE

CSUN to Host National Disability Mentoring Day

(NORTHRIDGE, Calif., Sept. Oct. 9, 2007) — A job can mean the difference in the life of a disabled person—a true opportunity for independence and self-reliance. But some employers may find hiring a disabled person daunting.

Cal State Northridge’s WorkAbility IV (WAIV) is joining with the Work Training Program on Wednesday, Oct. 17, National Disability Mentoring Day, to bring worker and potential employer together to take the mystery out of opportunity.

"The National Disability Mentoring Day’s goal is to promote career development for people with disabilities through career exploration," said Isabelle Martin, internship coordinator for CSUN’s WorkAbility Program, which offers career services to CSUN students with disabilities.

The event, which includes an overview of the types of jobs available on campus, will take place from 10 to 11 a.m. in the university’s Center on Disabilities located in Bayramian Hall on the west side of the campus at 18111 Nordhoff St. in Northridge.

"I would like for the Work Training Program participants to learn about one of the most important employers in the San Fernando Valley, which is California State University, Northridge," said Martin. "I believe it will be a great opportunity for them to learn about the types of jobs that are available on campus and to get to know better the vital force of the San Fernando Valley."

The job seekers’ participation in Disability Mentoring Day can result in an internship opportunity with the host employer, serve as a first interview on the way to a part-time or full-time employment offer, or even an on-the-spot job offer.

Work Training Programs, Inc is a non-profit organization that provides job training and placement services, as well as independent life skills to individuals with developmental and/or physical disabilities, mental illness and economic disadvantages. The organization serves 2,340 individuals throughout the counties of Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara, Kern and San Luis Obispo.

"What I like about the Work Training Program is that they work actively to help their participants find employment and consequently gain more independence," said Martin. "They ensure dynamic presence in the community by networking with local employers and other organizations that serve people with disabilities."

By observing what happens at Northridge, Martin is hoping that potential employers will realize that working with disabled employees can be mutually beneficial.

For more information regarding Work Training Programs, Inc, visit www.wtpinc.org or call (805) 966-3310.