| Upcoming events | |
6/15 - SSDI Workshop
Get information about SSI and SSDI from Jamie Hall, Esq., a Social Security Disability attorney. You'll learn about eligibility requirements, benefits, returning to work, application process/timeline and where to find help.
To register, call 1-800-FIGHT-MS (option 1). |
| We want your feedback | |
If you are living with MS, we want to hear about your employment needs and how we can better serve you. If you're currently working or looking to get back into the workforce or change careers, this survey is for you.
Please click here to take the survey.
Review the list of current and potential services in the survey. If you'd like any that aren't listed, please indicate that. Your opinions will help us develop and improve the employment services we offer. |
| Great resource gets a new look | |
The Job Accommodation Network (JAN), a service of the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Disability Policy that provides information and assistance regarding accommodation issues and disability employment issues, has a new website. Check it out at askjan.org and explore what JAN has to offer.
For specific accommodation ideas for MS, click here. JAN staff is also available by phone at 1-800-526-7234. |
| Looking for work? | |
Consider checking out these job boards and helpful resources:
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| Getting dirty for MS | |
Our newest fundraising event, Mud Run Brandywine, was a tremendous success this weekend, with more than 900 runners raising more than $150,000 and having tons of fun playing in the mud! Click here for our video recap and here for our photo gallery. Want to get involved in next year's run (tentatively scheduled for June 11)? Click here to register now! |
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5 steps to finding a job
 As you begin to look for a job, it may feel like a daunting task. Where do you start? The beginning. Finding a job is your job now, so treat it as such. Begin your day early and set aside time to assess and re-assess your own likes and dislikes, your skill sets, potential companies and job openings.
Step 1 - Assess your skills. Think about not only what you have been doing, but what it is you like to do. You will find it's very useful to zero in on your new career and the industries that interest you.
Step 2 - Research. So how do you navigate the wealth of information on the Web? Select a few job sites. Identify industries you enjoy and for which you have relevant skills, and use the Internet as a resource to research companies within that industry to better target your resume.
Step 3 - Job Search Engines. Now you're ready to move on to job search engines. Job search engines like Indeed.com and Simplyhired.com are great because they're one-stop shops and pull jobs directly from employer sites as well as the large job sites ( Monster.com, CareerBuilder.com, etc.)
Step 4 - Cyber Security. With so much of our lives online, our privacy may often times be compromised by failing to adhere to good practices. Don't put personal information like your social security number on your resume. For more tips on making your resume cyber safe, visit job-hunt.org.
Step 5 - Resume. Work your resume to be an accurate and complimentary representation of your achievements. Don't be afraid to toot your own horn -- value yourself!
Learn more about finding a job online.
Lori Daly has more than 20 years of experience as a recruiter, business developer and client manager and has worked with job seekers both as recruiter and hiring manager. She is currently with Northrop Grumman working on special programs. |
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In case you missed it...
 This spring, we offered a six-part teleconference series focused on employment issues with the National Capital and New York Chapters. The following topics were discussed:
>Staying positive while job hunting
>Searching and applying for jobs online
>Practical applications of the ADA amendments
>Employment training and placement resources for older workers
>Career change
>Self-employment: With supports it may be easier than you think
If you were not able to participate in the teleconferences but would like to receive a CD recording, please call Christina Forster at 1-800-548-4611 or e-mail christina.forster@pae.nmss.org. Be sure to indicate the topic of the call, your name, address and daytime telephone number. |
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Happy anniversary, ADA!
Did you know that July 26 will mark the 20-year anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)? This groundbreaking piece of legislation was dedicated to improving the lives of Americans with disabilities, including providing important protections and responsibilities in the workplace.
In order to commemorate this momentous occasion, the National ADA Symposium has launched the 2010 by 2010 Campaign. The goal is to get at least 2010 organizations, businesses, schools, state and local government agencies and individuals to sign on. Individuals and advocates are invited to submit a "Proclamation of Recommitment" to the ADA. |
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ADA Amendments Act: What does it all mean?
On September 25, 2008, the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA) was signed into law. It became effective on January 1, 2009. The ADAAA makes important changes to the definition of the term "disability." The basic definition remains the same -- an impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, a record of such an impairment or being regarded as having such an impairment. However, it changes the way the statutory terms should be interpreted.
Of particular relevance to people with MS:
>The definition of "major life activities" has been expanded to include major bodily functions including "functions of the immune system, bowel, bladder, neurological and brain functions," to name a few.
>An impairment that is episodic or in remission is a disability if it would substantially limit a major life activity when active.
>Mitigating measures other than "ordinary eyeglasses or contact lenses" shall not be considered in assessing whether an individual has a disability.
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Employer Profile: Booz Allen Hamilton
Booz Allen Hamilton is a strategy and technology consulting firm serving federal government agencies, corporations and non-profit organizations. Since its founding in 1914, Booz Allen has grown to 23,000 employees and has office locations in our chapter area, throughout the United States and abroad.
Booz Allen Hamilton has long been recognized for its employment initiatives focused on hiring and retaining people with disabilities. The company has twice been nominated to the New Freedom Initiative Circle of Champions, an award given by the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Disability Employment Policy.
It also sponsors The Disability Forum, which provides disability-related education and promises employees with disabilities an accessible and supportive work environment.
Booz Allen Hamilton has long been a supporter of the National MS Society, sponsoring fundraising events, hosting employment programs and more.
Click here to search for career opportunities in your area. |
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