March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is dedicated to spreading public awareness of the needs and the potential of individuals with developmental disabilities. It is also a chance to provide understanding, encouragement, and opportunities to help individuals with developmental disabilities. The OTC is committed to helping our clients achieve their full potential year-round, but we appreciate the opportunity to focus on those with developmental disabilities. We hope to assist in raising awareness of the barriers individuals face and the steps we should take to improve inclusivity in our communities.

What is a developmental disability?

Developmental disability is the broad term to describe a range of conditions that affect physical and/or mental functioning. For a condition to be considered a developmental disability, the manifestations or symptoms must be present in childhood years and expected to be present for life. Studies show about one in six children is diagnosed with one or more developmental disabilities.

The Occupational Training Center of Burlington County

The OTC is a nonprofit organization with the mission to assist adults with disabilities in reaching their maximum potential by providing programs that grow individuals vocationally, personally, and socially. Our programs include job training and job placement programs, day programs, and residential services. Our programs help adults with disabilities find their success at work, home, and beyond.

How Can Businesses Get Involved?

Now, more than ever, employers are considering how to create a more inclusive, diverse workplace. Not only do you get input and ideas from individuals with a variety of backgrounds, but employees also feel that they “count” and that their own uniqueness is honored.

• Local businesses that are looking for skilled, highly motivated employees to join their team may be interested in hiring someone from our program for their business. These individuals would have the added support of our case managers/job coaches to assist them in learning their new jobs and acclimating to their businesses unique culture and environment.
• If you’re a manufacturer, a distributor, a broker or an entrepreneur seeking a responsive and highly organized outsourcing partner, The OTC can help. We partner with select businesses that need high-quality packaging, assembly and fulfillment services at reasonable prices.