WARREN COUNTY, NJ – The Warren County Board of County Commissioners proclaimed October as Disability Employment Awareness Month to celebrate and recognize the capabilities and contributions of persons with a disability.
The Commissioners said they recognize that disability does not diminish the entitlement of any individual to live independently, enjoy self-determination, make personal choices, contribute to society and to experience the economic, political, social, cultural and educational mainstream of American society.
People with disabilities are “active, important members of our community,” Commissioner Jason J. Sarnoski said after reading the proclamation at last night’s Board of County Commissioners meeting.
Sarnoski, Commissioner Director Lori Ciesla and Commissioner James R. Kern III then presented the proclamation to Abilities of Northwest Jersey, Inc. Inc. CEO Cynthia Wildermuth and PossAbilities Thrift Boutiques Associate Carissa Pross.
Wildermuth introduced Pross as a person who as succeeded in the face of tremendous challenges. “She is the epitome of determination (and) strength,” Wildermuth said, adding, “We admire her for all that she has been through and we appreciate her success.”
Pross said that after a stroke left her with several impairments, employers would not hire her but Abilities gave her the opportunity to work at the PossAbilities Thrift Boutiques. She and Wildermuth thanked the commissioners for supporting the organization and bringing awareness to disability employment issues.
