Hello, everyone! What a busy time … this coming week we're celebrating our family weekend at Pathfinder, and in my town we're celebrating our annual fall fete. And of course, there are so many homecomings, sports events and special weekends at schools and colleges. Happy October!
Despite the hustle and bustle of the opening days of National Down Syndrome Month/National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we'll be here to help you and your family members get all the great fruits and vegetables you'll need to power through the week. Just stop by this Thursday (10-4!) at the Village Commons from 1 to 5 p.m. And don't forget our convenient online ordering system: You may place your order online, pay with a credit card, and then stop by our Edmeston or Morris delivery sites on Thursday afternoon for a delicious and fresh selection of healthy foods.
Pathfinder Produce … we're rooted in community!
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For many years, we've held both formal and informal observances at Pathfinder Village in celebration of October as National Down Syndrome Month. Our residential community and support services were rooted in serving children and adults who have Down syndrome in our early years; since that time, we've expanded on our services to support families and individuals with diverse needs.
The observance of Down Syndrome Awareness Month was established in 1991 through an Executive Order by President George H.W. Bush which states, “…we know that many individuals with Down syndrome are both determined and able to lead active, productive lives. Thanks to early intervention and mainstreaming, as well as improved treatment of physical health problems related to Down syndrome, thousands are doing just that.”
But did you also know that October is also National Disability Employment Awareness Month? This is an important observance, and one that is being noticed more-and-more by employers around the country. First designated nationally by Congress in 1988, NDEAM has roots going back to the 1920s, when soldiers injured during WWI sought vocational training options to re-enter the workforce. These efforts grew more extensive over time in supporting workers with vision and other physical impairments; they grew more inclusive in 1961 when President Kennedy created the President’s Panel on Mental Retardation and called upon America to address the needs of people with intellectual disabilities and their desires to be part of everyday life in America.
This year's theme for NDEAM is “America's Workforce: Empowering All.” The Department of Labor also offers a series of activities, recommendations, and Public Service Announcements in support of hiring people with diverse abilities. Nationally, we’re starting to see employment numbers for those with disabilities inch up, and there are more-and-more stories speaking on how workers and volunteers with disabilities are good for businesses.
Here at Pathfinder Village, we know this first hand as many of the tasks associated with Pathfinder Produce are overseen and managed each week by the very capable members of our Adult Day Services program. From set-up to assisting customers with their purchases, our ADS members exhibit a great work ethic and are proud of the work they do. Their contributions are vital to the success and longevity of the program.
But in rural areas, access to jobs and quality vocational training programs remain elusive for individuals with disabilities. That’s part of the reason why “we’re upping our game” at Pathfinder Produce. Last week, we announced that through the support of a grant through the Leatherstocking Collaborative Health Partners, and in collaboration with Bassett Healthcare and other partners, we’ll be launching a Mobile Market route, sometime in early 2019. This will provide even more opportunities for our ADS members to participate in vocational experiences in the community, and will also help provide fresh fruits and vegetables to area families who contend with the dual barriers of lacking public transportation and long distances to full-service groceries.
Stay tuned to our Pathfinder Produce blog for more on the Mobile Market as it develops! Until next time, eat well and be well!
Lori
