Business Conference to Highlight Disability Employment Model

March 1, 2012

As the Maine economy continues to improve, many employers are seeking new hiring strategies to add diversity to their workplace and improve their bottom line.

An upcoming business conference highlights a disability hiring initiative developed by Walgreens that has helped the drugstore chain address their labor challenges and improve productivity.

Dozens of other employers, including a Proctor and Gamble manufacturing and distribution center in Auburn, have adopted the model, which provides integrated employment opportunities for people with a wide range of physical and developmental disabilities.

The event will be held on April 3, 2012 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Freeport Maine. The event is open to all Maine employers and the registration cost is $50. Preregistration is required and can be done online at www.mainechamber.org or by calling 623-4568, ext. 104.

?The business case for this disability employment model is compelling,? said Maine Labor Commissioner Robert Winglass. ?Employers report increased productivity and greater job satisfaction within the entire workforce. A concerted effort to promote diversity and employment opportunities for people with disabilities also demonstrates good corporate responsibility and creates an invaluable amount of goodwill in the greater community.?

The agenda for the half-day conference includes a keynote address from Deb Russell, corporate manager for Walgreens, and testimonials from several businesses in Maine.

Sponsors include the Maine State Chamber of Commerce, Proctor and Gamble, Maine Department of Labor, and Maine Department of Health and Human Services.

-end-