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Department of Energy
Office of Headquarters Procurement Operations
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October 4, 2004
Subject: NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MONTH AND THE
JAVITS-WAGNER-O'DAY PROGRAM
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month and an
appropriate time to celebrate the Javits-Wagner-O'Day (JWOD) Program.
This year's theme is "JWOD Works for America". Created in 1938,
this unique Federal procurement program has provided employment
to thousands of individuals with severe disabilities, enabling them
to lead more productive and independent lives. The JWOD Program
encompasses all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico
and Guam. Under the JWOD program, supplies and services purchased
by DOE and other Federal agencies generate jobs for more than 42,000
Americans who are blind or have other severe disabilities. A goal
of creating 50,000 jobs has been established. The JWOD Program is
the largest single provider of employment for people who are blind
or have other severe disabilities in the United States. Total sales
under the JWOD Program exceed $1 billion annually. As we celebrate
this success, 21 million Americans with disabilities remain unemployed.
President Bush has said, "All of our citizens should have the opportunity
to live and work with dignity and freedom. Every October, we observe
National Disability Employment Awareness Month, to recognize the
talents, skills, and dedication of disabled Americans who are a
vital part of our workforce." Not only are people who are blind
or have other severe disabilities a vital part of the American workforce,
but under the JWOD Program they are also essential suppliers of
SKILCRAFT and other JWOD products and services to the Federal Government
and U.S. Armed Forces.
The JWOD Program, as part of the National Disability Employment
Awareness Month, is intended to raise awareness and to recognize
the crucial role played by Federal personnel, whose purchases of
JWOD items contribute to the Program's success. This is an ideal
time for Federal personnel to revisit their procurement needs and
renew their interest in supporting the JWOD Program. This Program
provides Federal personnel with quality supplies and services, on
time, at reasonable prices.
Please learn more about this program at www.jwod.gov. The DOE liaison
to the JWOD Program is Jeffrey Rubenstein, ME-641, (202) 287-1516.
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