October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month
Congress designated October as "National Disability Employment Awareness Month" to increase the public's awareness of the contributions and skills of American workers with disabilities. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, 21.1% of the labor force is disabled, making these individuals the nation's largest minority group. The Rehabilitation Institute strives to empower individuals with disabilities by preparing them for the workforce through job readiness training and career exploration. Additionally, The Rehabilitation Institute runs an Extended Work Adjustment Program, R.I. Industries, which provides employment and support to individuals with severe disabilities. In 2010, 81% of those we served through Employment Services secured employment and remained employed after six months. Currently, R.I. Industries employs 181 disabled individuals whose work meets the ISO standard of excellence.
|
Upcoming Events
Auxiliary Card Party United Methodist Church October 17
YFI|TRI Beers & Blankets Event The Rehabilitation Institute November 8 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Help us make fleece blankets for our patients and clients for the Holidays!
War and Recovery Information and Advocacy Day National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial November 4
Additional details about events can be found
|
|
Building Brighter Futures for Children and Adults with Disabilities.
Medical Rehabilitation Employment Services Sheltered Workshops
Main Location 3011 Baltimore Ave Kansas City, MO 64108 St. Joseph Employment Office 210 N. 7th Street St. Joseph, MO 64501 Warrensburg Employment Office 1034 S. Maguire, Ste C Warrensburg, MO 64093 |
We are proudly supported by
|
|
|
Partnership Helps Individuals
with Disabilities Shine
 Assurant Employee Benefits does much more than provide disability insurance. They provide invaluable resources to individuals facing a disability. The Rehabilitation Institute had the pleasure of once again participating in Assurant's Shining Star of Perseverance award ceremony on October 4. This year, Assurant recognized a claimant who has shown perseverance despite barriers. Jennifer Mundl, a woman with quadriplegia who is ventilator-dependent, was recognized for her amazing ability and work in the assistive technology field. In her honor, Assurant Employee Benefits donated $7,500 to The Rehabilitation Institute's Adaptive Computer and Communication Technology Program (ACCT) to help identify and train individuals with disabilities to utilize adaptive equipment, technology and devices to assist them in communication, attending school, securing or maintaining employment and/or living independently. Additionally, Jennifer was presented with a beautiful piece of framed art created by Donna Smith, who was paralyzed from a diving accident. She has the ability to paint using only a brush held in her mouth.
Assurant Employee Benefit's work does not stop with the Shining Star. Assurant participates in a number of volunteer events with The Rehabilitation Institute throughout the year. Later this month they will be hosting a Mentor Day to give young adults with disabilities the opportunity to explore a variety of career paths and receive job readiness advice from individuals working in the field. The group will spend the day at interview and resume workshops and then shadow Assurant employees in various departments. The goal is to provide guidance, understanding and encouragement to young individuals interested in entering the workforce.
We thank Assurant Employee Benefits for not only investing monetarily into our organization, but for volunteering their time and talent to reach out to the individuals we serve and make a lasting impact on their lives.
|
...And Celebrate Ability We Did at the 3rd Annual
Ability Quest: Run, Walk, Stroll or Roll
Thank you to our Sponsors!
IPM Group Treat America RoadID Individuals of all abilities ran, walked, strolled and rolled through Meadowmere Park in Grandview on October 1 in celebration of the accomplishments our patients and clients have made. Although the weather was a bit chilly, spirits were high as participants crossed the finish line and enjoyed some warm pancakes and coffee. We thank all of the individuals and organizations who participated, donated and volunteered their time to this wonderful cause. They are truly paving the way for individuals who face serious and disabling injuries and illnesses. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year for the 4th Annual Ability Quest! CLICK HERE to see additional photos from the event! |
| Welcome to the Team!
 The Rehabilitation Institute would like to introduce Dr. Jeremy Stevenson. He is our newest Licensed Psychologist in the Neuropsychology and Family Services Department. He will be providing both group and individual psychotherapy and consultation. Prior to joining The Institute, Dr. Stevenson worked as a Psychology Fellow at Kansas City Veteran Affairs. A native to the Kansas City area, he received his Doctorate from George Fox University in Oregon where he was awarded outstanding student in his program. Dr. Stevenson was drawn to The Rehabilitation Institute because of the work he had done during his internship at Kansas University Medical Center in the inpatient rehabilitation department. He has an ever growing interest in the psychological side of medical issues and looks forward to helping those we serve make gains to improve their quality of life. While only a few days in on the job, Dr. Stevenson's favorite part thus far is the culture. "All of the staff is warm and welcoming. I like that it is very community-oriented with events such as Bacon Fest," he explains. In his free time he loves spending time with his wife and three month old daughter, Chloe, and enjoys doing things outdoors, such as yard work and biking. We are thankful for Dr. Stevenson's dedication to our mission and we are thrilled to have him with us. |
|
Issue 3: School Transition & Summer Therapy Camp
 
|
|
|
|
|
