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Paying it Forward

MIAMI, FL - Before a large audience, eight business were recognized by the state of Florida for being leaders in the employment of people with disabilities. The celebration was held to kick off Disability Employment Awareness Month.

Darren Gregory worked hard to prepare himself for when he got an opportunity to go to work. Gregory, who has cerebral palsy, graduated with both a bachelor's and master's degree in social work. He also volunteered at a veteran's hospital. With all his expertise, that job opportunity presented itself in May when he was hired by his alma mater, Florida International University (FIU), as a career coach in the Office of Career Services.

Gregory's primary role is to assist FIU students with disabilities in getting prepared to enter the job market. He helps them with developing a resume', finding job internships, and preparing for interviews. Many of the students he sees have either a physical or mental disability.

"I absolutely love my job. This is what I went to school to do. It is my opportunity to give back to the whole community and the disability community too," says Gregory. "I like the people I work with. They have been wonderful to me."

October is Disability Employment Awareness Month. Florida's Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) is highlighting the contributions of people with disabilities, like Gregory, to the work force.

Gregory's supervisor, Associate Director Ivette Duarte, says, "Darren's work ethic is unparalleled. I wish I had three or four more Darrens. Nothing stands in his way. He is fabulous."

FIU has provided Gregory with computer software that types up the words he speaks due to his limited hand dexterity. They have also made sure his office accommodates his wheelchair.

Being a recent college graduate, Gregory brings a new perspective to the FIU career center. Duarte says, "Darren is our gage. He is phenomenal and able to connect with all students. He identifies needs with a keen student perspective and makes sure our office is on board."

APD supports people with developmental disabilities to live, learn, and work in their communities. The agency annually serves about 35,000 Floridians with developmental disabilities of mental retardation, autism, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and Prader-Willi syndrome. For more information on the agency, call 1-866-APD-CARES or visit www.APDCares.org.