Several state agencies welcome thirty incredible young students who have overcome their disabilities to join the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) intern program.
Part of the Employment First initiative, the OVR intern program is intended to assist people with disabilities in improving their employment opportunities and outcomes and create a more hospitable work environment. It is a joint partnership between its OVR, which helps find the candidates, and the Office of Administration (OA), which provides job placement. Both are divisions of the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I). Program participation increased by 50% since last active in 2019. Policies have been amended to allow students in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh to participate remotely
“The OVR Internship program gives students with disabilities access to the same opportunities as their peers to gain experience in their field of study, develop their professional networks, build their resumes, and be better prepared to enter the workforce,” said Secretary of Administration Michael Newsome. “We are proud to offer the type of competitive opportunities envisioned by Employment First.”
“The OVR Internship program is a wonderful example of ‘Government that Works.’ Not only has this partnership expanded the Office of Administration’s knowledge about hiring people with disabilities but the interns themselves have broken down barriers with hiring managers in their host sites by their dedication, personalities, and personal achievements. This is truly a win-win-win program for all involved, and OVR, in partnership with the Office of Administration, continues to look for ways to expand the program and hiring initiatives for people with disabilities within the commonwealth,” said Acting OVR Director Ryan Hyde.
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