OPM Director Addresses the Need for Federal Career Outreach Efforts to Attract Those With Disabilities

Washington, D.C. - Before hundreds of people with disabilities and their mentors at the Ronald Reagan International Trade Building, U.S. Office of Personnel Management Director Kay Coles James discussed the need for a strong civil service, one that can handle the many challenges the federal government faces daily.

"President Bush has made it clear that the federal government must be a model employer, and he has challenged us to lead by example when it comes to tearing down the barriers that prevent full participation of every American," said James. "We are indeed in a hiring mode, and OPM is proactive in championing initiatives that will attract the best and brightest."

The speech came during the launch of disabilityinfo.gov, a multi-agency effort to "get the word out" about the many programs offered by the federal government to help those with disabilities.

"This event is just one of many ways OPM is strengthening strategic partnerships with other federal agencies," said James. "OPM's piece of this web site offers a comprehensive source of federal employment information. You can access the USAJOBS listings and find all kinds of information that will help prospective applicants who are disabled, as well as managers and human resources professionals looking to give opportunities to members of that community."

The disabilityinfo.gov site includes information on civil rights, education, employment, housing, health care, technology and transportation.

OPM oversees the federal work force and provides the American public with up-to-date employment information. OPM also supports U.S. agencies with personnel services and policy leadership including staffing tools, guidance on labor-management relations and programs to improve work force performance.