Department of Energy
Office of Headquarters Procurement Operations

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.