People with Disabilities Archives

Online course promoting safe police encounters set to launch

Posted on October 17, 2024October 17, 2024 by Dale Rogers Training Center

First-of-its-kind certification for people living with disabilities

DRTC alongside IDD Safe are preparing to launch a new program that will teach people living with disabilities across the United States how to have safer interactions with law enforcement.

Dale Rogers Training Center (DRTC) and IDD Safe, in conjunction with LearningQ, an accessible learning platform, are producing a multi-unit certification unit called “Safety and Police Encounters.” This self-paced, five-badge course includes 25 topics within:

You and the police
Being safe with police
Proper identification
Your rights
Police encounters

DRTC has partnered with IDD Safe since 2022 providing in-person police safety training to more than 100 people. The online format, featuring video tutorials and interactive elements, will help empower more people living with disabilities across the country to interact confidently and safely with police.

“We’re excited to provide this first-of-its-kind training to people living with intellectual or developmental disabilities beyond our agency,” said DRTC Executive Director/CEO Deborah Copeland, M.Ed. “Whether it be an emergency, routine traffic stop, or security at an airport, anyone can find themselves in situations involving law enforcement. Our goal is to provide needed information for navigating these stressful events.”

Ret. Lt. Stan Campbell and Ret. Sgt. Rob High, both retired Oklahoma City Police Department officers, co-founded IDD Safe to deliver de-escalation training for those with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

“Offering this level of training nationwide allows us the opportunity to reach a broader audience in the name of safety and increase the chances of favorable outcomes during police encounters,” said IDD Co-founder Lt. Campbell.

Safety and Police Encounters is expected to launch February 2025, with pre-registration available now at learningq.org/#/products/safepolice. Participants will have three months’ access to the training material, with an option for ten weeks of live instruction from experienced instructors.

DRTC picks up 5th straight CIMS re-certification

Posted on September 26, 2024September 26, 2024 by Dale Rogers Training Center

We’re excited to say we’ve earned our fifth straight CIMS (Cleaning Industry Management Standard) re-certification!

The CIMS certification is awarded to custodial providers who demonstrate a commitment to excellence and continuous improvement in their management and custodial services. DRTC was evaluated in six areas including quality systems, service delivery, human resources, regulatory compliance, management commitment, and green building. DRTC has been CIMS certified since 2014.

“Achieving our fifth consecutive CIMS re-certification reflects our commitment to quality and reliability in support of the mission at the locations we serve,” said DRTC Executive Director/CEO Deborah Copeland, M.Ed. “We are proud to continue upholding the high standards that CIMS represents.”

DRTC holds federal custodial contracts at Tinker Air Force Base, the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, the U.S. Marshals Oklahoma City office, and the federal complex in downtown Oklahoma City. Combined, DRTC’s custodial team cleans more than 7 million square feet at these locations.

As of 2023, DRTC is one of more than 340 companies globally that is CIMS certified. In addition to re-certification, DRTC received a distinction of honors for exceeding CIMS six core areas of business.

Agencywide, DRTC serves, trains or employs approximately 900 people living with disabilities or limiting conditions. Last year, people employed across all DRTC’s programs earned $6.2 million in wages. More than 75% of DRTC’s programs and employment opportunities are based in the community.

Ability At Work Awards Employer of the Year: JASCO

Posted on August 21, 2024August 21, 2024 by Dale Rogers Training Center

Congratulations to our 2024 AAWA Employer of the Year: JASCO

Mark Schaffner of JASCO accepting award alongside LaQuita Colbert, Dana Ganschow, Kathy Veros, Gary Roettge, and DRTC Executive Director/CEO Deborah Copeland.

Beginning in 2008 with building displays for Target, this 16-year relationship currently supports more than 100 people in the DRTC Production Center and 12 individuals who have worked onsite at their location with more than $200,000 in contracts. Today, Jasco, an industry leader in electronics, looks to DRTC as a partner for high-quality work in kitting, assembly, and packaging, placing R-F-I-D’s on products for placement in Walmart. As a company, Jasco aspires to improve people’s lives through partnerships that inspire change. We appreciate Jasco seeing our ability to be a valuable business partner, which is why Jasco is our Ability at Work—Employer of the Year.

Ability At Work Awards Spotlight Honorees

Posted on August 20, 2024August 20, 2024 by Dale Rogers Training Center

Congratulations to all AAWA 2024 Spotlight Honorees!

Vocational Services

Nicholas Schildt

Excited about moving into Competitive Integrated Employment, Nicholas Schildt is determined and dedicated to his work. Working at the enclave Taylor Valve, Nick is recognized as a very skilled plug builder and PSI tester. Nick had an employment goal of moving into his own apartment where he is independent and lights up when talking about cooking some of his favorite recipes that come from his gaming system. He especially likes the recipe “Those Poor Unfortunate Rolls.” His dedication to working in the community and being an example for others moving into competitive integrated employment is why Nicholas Schildt is our Vocational Services Spotlight Honoree.

Employment Services

Isaiah Sweeney

Isaiah Sweeney has an infectious smile and laugh that immediately drew his coworkers and supervisors in. He has been a productive and dependable employee at Ross for almost one year. He is thorough when placing security tags and is willing to work in any department to stock merchandise on the floor. His eagerness to learn, willingness to work hard, and ability to adapt to various environments have made him a great employee, which is why Isaiah Sweeney is our Employment Services Spotlight Honoree.

Staff

Charles Young

A true advocate for a disability-inclusive workforce and the people he serves, Charles Young is known for his tenacity and follow-through to get the job done! He takes pride in his work and is a role model within the agency. He takes on each challenge with a positive “Can Do” attitude. At DRTC since 2012, Charles transitioned from Warehouse/Delivery Driver to Warehouse Manager and is currently Production Coordinator. He recently stated, “You don’t work a day in your life if you love what you do.” He exemplifies that daily and is a great asset to DRTC. Charles Young is one of our Direct Service Professional Honorees.

Sue Gill

It is no wonder that Sue Gill is a trusted advocate for the clients at DRTC. Sue came to DRTC in 2021 after a dedicated career in education and counseling. Sue helped develop and lead the DRTC Academy, while building partnerships with local nonprofits such as I-D-D Safe and Bethany Children’s Center to help give specific skills to the individuals she serves. Her compassion and empathy is seen in every interaction! This is why Sue Gill is one of our Direct Service Professional Spotlight Honorees.

Federal Contracts

Rachel Evans (TMC)

Rachel Evans always has a positive attitude. An AbilityOne employee at DRTC’s Tinker Maintenance Contract since 2010, Rachel has worked in many different buildings during her tenure and has adapted to each environment. She develops trust and great relationships with her coworkers, leads, supervisor, and Tinker personnel. While developing these relationships she maintains focus on her tasks, taking pride in her work daily. Rachel Evans is one of our AbilityOne Spotlight Honorees.

Milvian Hernandez-Tecun (FAA)

A dedicated employee at the FAA Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center since 2016, Milvian Hernandez-Tecun is very flexible and accepting of changes which makes her a versatile employee. Milvian’s quality inspections scores consistently exceed 90% which shows exceptional detail and gives confidence to her Supervisors to have her regularly travel to other buildings at FAA to help her colleagues. Milvian is very thorough in what she does and truly enjoys coming to work every day. She is always happy to see her peers as well as her lead and supervisor. Milvian Hernandez-Tecun is one of our AbilityOne Spotlight Honorees.

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DRTC Supports Modernizing Policy to Benefit People with Disabilities

Posted on February 27, 2024February 27, 2024 by Dale Rogers Training Center

New bill would develop a transition plan away from subminimum wages in Oklahoma

DRTC applauds Representative Ellyn Hefner for introducing legislation to examine the future use of 14(c) certificate programs in Oklahoma. If approved, the measure could usher in a new wave of service and program modernization across the state.

House Bill 3796 would create a task force to examine and develop a plan to phase out the use of 14(c) subminimum wages paid to people with disabilities in Oklahoma.

“States that have phased out 14(c) considered a multitude of related aspects including high school-to-work transition programs, Medicaid administration, and non-work-related activities,” said DRTC Executive Director/CEO Deborah Copeland, M.Ed. “DRTC hopes the task force would find and recommend best practices across the country to develop an Oklahoma-specific solution.”

According to the Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE), 15 states have passed laws to eliminate subminimum wages paid to people with disabilities (July 2023). DRTC is a member of APSE, as well as SourceAmerica®, an AbilityOne® Program to employ people with disabilities. The AbilityOne® Program also eliminated the use of 14c subminimum wages for thousands of people with disabilities working on federal contracts (October 2022).

DRTC serves, trains or employs approximately 700 people with disabilities or limiting conditions annually. More than 100 of these workers at DRTC’s main campus are eligible to earn subminimum wages under the 14(c) certificate. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, nearly 1,200 Oklahomans currently earn subminimum wages (as of January 1, 2024).

DRTC has spearheaded the conversation in the transition away from 14(c) subminimum wages, leading a coalition comprised of state and provider agencies to address concerns facing Oklahoma. Additionally, DRTC participated in an interim study conducted by Reps. Hefner and Jared Deck that ultimately proposed the task force mentioned in HB3796.

“We are highly encouraged by the proposal for a task force,” said Copeland. “This is a great opportunity to modernize services and policy for Oklahomans with disabilities and their families. We hope Oklahoma’s lawmakers recognize the need to be prepared to serve some of their most vulnerable constituents throughout the process.”

Congresswoman Bice Recognized for Support of Disability Employment Program

Posted on November 21, 2023November 21, 2023 by Dale Rogers Training Center

Congresswoman becomes Oklahoma’s third current delegate with the distinction.

Honoring her commitment to a federal program designed to increase employment opportunities of people with disabilities, Dale Rogers Training Center (DRTC), along with NewView Oklahoma, proudly presented the AbilityOne® Congressional Champion Award to Congresswoman Stephanie Bice (OK-05) in her district office.

Congresswoman Bice demonstrated her support of the AbilityOne® Program through use of products made by partner agencies, as well as a site visit at Tinker Air Force Base in August, where she learned about DRTC’s custodial and food service contracts, and NewView Oklahoma’s products including wooden airplane chocks, hydraulic hoses and more.

“Supporting the AbilityOne® Program provides another voice that promotes disability-inclusion in the workplace and community,” said DRTC Executive Director Deborah Copeland, M.Ed. “We’re thankful Congresswoman Bice has placed this priority on a historically under-represented part of the workforce.”

Congresswoman Bice joins Senator James Lankford and Congressman Tom Cole as Oklahoma’s current delegates to hold the distinction from the AbilityOne® Program, which employs nearly 60,000 people nationwide through 575 nonprofit agencies (SourceAmerica®, Fiscal Year 2022).

“I am honored to receive the AbilityOne Congressional Champion Award,” said Congresswoman Bice. “AbilityOne employees are crucial in the day-to-day operations at Tinker Air Force Base and at numerous other facilities throughout the United States. I was overjoyed to have the ability to meet many of these inspiring individuals and l will continue working to support them during my time in Congress.”

According to a recent Mathematica report, the AbilityOne® Program generates $2.66 to the federal government for every $1 spent on the program. DRTC has a total economic impact of $2 million through its federal contracts held through SourceAmerica®, an AbilityOne® Program (Mathematica Socioeconomic Impact Evaluation Report).

DRTC has held the food service contract at Tinker Air Force Base for 30-years, preparing meals for military and civilian personnel around-the-clock. In addition, DRTC holds custodial contracts at Tinker Air Force Base, the FAA Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, and the Federal Courthouse, Federal Post Office, the Oklahoma City Federal Building, and the Murrah Plaza in downtown Oklahoma City. Combined, nearly 300 staff work on these contracts.

NewView Oklahoma, a National Industries for the Blind (NIB) and AbilityOne® associated agency, provides employment for individuals who are blind or living with low vision. The agency employs 120 full-time employees through AbilityOne® contracts, and 186 employees organization-wide.

Grant to Foster Entrepreneurship Among Oklahomans with Disabilities

Posted on October 31, 2023October 31, 2023 by Dale Rogers Training Center

People with disabilities seeking self-employment will have more opportunities to reach their goals, thanks in part to pandemic relief aid.

The Oklahoma County Board of Commissioners recently approved $100,000 in pandemic relief aid via the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) for DRTC to create an incubator/accelerator program designed to support people with disabilities to become self-employed.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for those looking to pave their own path and receive the resources needed to be successful in business,” said Deborah Copeland, M.Ed., DRTC Executive Director/CEO.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, people with a disability were more likely to be self-employed (9.5%) than those with no disability (6.1%).

DRTC’s Hub Business Incubator Program, with a tentative launch date in late 2023, will provide support and training for people with a disability interested in becoming entrepreneurs. Candidates will have the opportunity to develop their ideas through a business planning process. Another component involves mentorship comprised of established business leaders to provide guidance, support and advice for the entrepreneurs. Applicants interested in participating in the program should contact pr@drtc.org or call 405-946-4489 x1431.

Employability Honorees from DRTC’s 70th Anniversary Gala

Posted on October 11, 2023October 18, 2023 by Dale Rogers Training Center

As DRTC proudly celebrates its 70th Anniversary, we’re taking a moment to honor and recognize those individuals whose commitment embodies the organization’s core mission of leading the community toward a more disability-inclusive workforce.

Employment Services Client Spotlight Honoree – John Hamilton

Over and over John Hamilton has proven to be a flexible and adaptive employee for the OU Children’s Hospital. He is known for his consistently high-quality work over the past two years. An active listener and skilled communicator, John contributes positively to the overall performance of his team and company. Quiet and focused, it’s easy to see why he’s a valued staff and mentor for his co-workers.

Employment Services Direct Service Professional Spotlight Honoree – Vivian Naegeli

As an Employment Training Specialist and Supervisor for 18 years, Vivian Naegeli has supported more than 400 individuals with disabilities in their employment journey. Throughout her employment, Vivian has consistently assisted the most individuals in obtaining employment across the community. Proficient in American Sign Language and individualized support for people who are Deaf, Vivian is an unstoppable force in creating a more disability-inclusive workforce and community for Oklahoma.

Employment Services Employer Champion – Sodexo

A global leader in quality-of-life services essential for individual and organizational performance. Sodexo supports equal opportunity for all employees. Since 2016, DRTC has successfully partnered with Sodexo as an employer for more than 35 individuals with disabilities across 13 locations. Year after year, Sodexo’s commitment to hiring a disability-inclusive workforce through the DRTC Employment Services Program shines through.

DRTC Ability At Work Employer of the Year

Equitability Honorees

Capability Honorees

Dependability Honorees

DRTC Marks 70 Years in OKC

Posted on October 6, 2023October 6, 2023 by Dale Rogers Training Center

ATC Drivetrain Recognized as Inaugural Employer of the Year

DRTC, also known as Dale Rogers Training Center, celebrated its clients, employees, partners and donors, as well as 70 years of DRTC’s impact and achievements at its 70^th Anniversary Gala.

DRTC, founded in 1953 by a group of parents as an educational center for children with disabilities, has since transformed into a vocational and employment center. Every year, the private 501(c)3 nonprofit agency trains, serves, or employs approximately 1,000 people with disabilities. Last program year, people employed across DRTC’s vast programs earned more than $6 million in wages.

The event, held at the Embassy Suites Oklahoma City Downtown Medical Center, was emceed by 2021 Miss Oklahoma Ashleigh Robinson, who is a fierce advocate for Danielle, her younger sister with Down syndrome.

DRTC recognized the efforts of several people as well as business partners during the event across several categories: Equitability (Breaking Barriers), Capability (Business Partnerships), Employability (Disability-Inclusion in the Workplace), Dependability (Essential Heroes), culminating in the inaugural DRTC Ability At Work Employer of the Year Award, which was awarded to ATC Drivetrain, a world leader in remanufacturing of transmissions.

“Employers like ATC Drivetrain have embraced an inclusive workforce and we are thankful for their continued support of DRTC and hiring people with disabilities,” said Deborah Copeland, M.Ed., DRTC Executive Director/CEO.

DRTC is planning additional special events throughout 2023 to continue the celebration with clients, their caregivers, as well as employees at its federal contracts locations.

Complete list of honorees:

Kermit Walker – Vocational Services Spotlight Honoree
Angela Waldrop – Direct Services Provider Spotlight Honoree
Oklahoma City Zoo – Community Integrated Employment Employer Champion
Oklahoma Department of Transportation – State Use Champion
JASCO – Business Partnership Champion
KFOR – Media Partnership Champion
John Hamilton – Employment Services Spotlight Honoree
Vivian Naegeli – Employment Services, Direct Services Provider Spotlight Honoree
Sodexo – Employment Services Employer Champion
Myra Denson-Hartsock – AbilityOne® Spotlight Honoree
Jason Kelleher – AbilityOne® Spotlight Honoree
ATC Drivetrain – DRTC Ability At Work Employer of the Year

Congresswoman Stephanie Bice tours AbilityOne® Program at Tinker Air Force Base

Posted on August 25, 2023August 25, 2023 by Dale Rogers Training Center

Congresswoman Stephanie Bice (OK-05) spent part of her August recess learning how people with disabilities serve as a critical component for the federal government and the United States military.

Rep. Bice recently toured Vanwey Dining Facility, operated by Dale Rogers Training Center (DRTC), at Tinker Air Force Base. DRTC has held the food service contract through SourceAmerica®, an AbilityOne® Program, for 30-years, preparing meals for military and civilian personnel around-the-clock. In addition, DRTC holds custodial contracts at TAFB, cleaning 188 buildings on base in support of the mission at Tinker.

NewView Oklahoma, a National Industries for the Blind (NIB) and AbilityOne® associated agency, participated in Rep. Bice’s visit as well. NewView Oklahoma provides employment for individuals who are blind or living with low vision. The agency employs 120 full-time employees through AbilityOne® contracts, and 186 employees organization-wide. Those employees serve in various capacities through service contracts at military installations across the country, including Tinker Air Force Base. NewView also offers employment through their Oklahoma City manufacturing plant where they manufacture a diverse range of products including wooden airplane chalks, DLA hoses, hydraulic hoses, high pressure hoses, sanitation products, survival kits, first aid kits, and more.

AbilityOne® Program employees from both DRTC and NewView Oklahoma spoke with Congresswoman Bice about the importance of the employment program in their lives. Rep. Bice also learned more about the AbilityOne® Program from DRTC Executive Director/CEO Deborah Copeland, M.Ed., and NewView Oklahoma President & CEO Lauren Branch and how people with disabilities have gained meaningful employment through contracts via SourceAmerica® and NIB.

DRTC employs approximately 200 people at Tinker Air Force Base, among its three contracts on base.

“Through employment, our staff have been able to support their families, advance their careers, and develop their skills,” said Deborah Copeland. Executive Director and CEO of DRTC. “The AbilityOne® Program continues to prove its worth, generating $2.66 to the federal government for every one-dollar spent on the program.” (Mathematica Socioeconomic Impact Evaluation Report)

The unemployment rate for Americans living with vision-related disabilities is 67%; that equates to more than 48,000 Oklahomans eligible but not participating in the workforce. “The AbilityOne® program is a vital federal program that protects and encourages the employment of individuals living with disabilities. Without it, many of our neighbors would remain unemployed,” said Lauren Branch, President and CEO of NewView Oklahoma.

DRTC recognized Col. Abigail Ruscetta, Commander, 72^nd Air Base Wing, Tinker Air Force Base, Congresswoman Bice, and Senator Markwayne Mullin (whose staff attended the event) with a commemorative acrylic manufactured at the agency’s headquarters located at 2501 N. Utah Ave. in Oklahoma City.

Tag: People with Disabilities