[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 15 (Wednesday, February 2, 2011)]
[Senate]
[Pages S479-S480]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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            ABILITYONE PROGRAM AND THE ARC OF CADDO-BOSSIER

 Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, today I recognize a program which 
in the last several years has helped more than 45,000 Americans who are 
blind or who have significant disabilities gain skills and training 
that ultimately led to gainful employment, the AbilityOne Program.
  The AbilityOne Program is the single largest source of jobs for 
Americans who are blind or have significant disabilities. The program 
harnesses the purchasing power of the Federal Government to buy 
products and services from participating community-based nonprofit 
agencies that are dedicated to training and employing individuals with 
disabilities. This program affords Americans with disabilities the 
opportunity to acquire job skills, training, good wages, benefits, 
while providing greater independence and quality of life.

[[Page S480]]

  I am especially proud to acknowledge that the AbilityOne Program is 
affiliated with the Arc of Caddo-Bossier in Shreveport, LA.
  The history of the Arc of Caddo-Bossier represents a true example of 
what it means to grow and help people with disabilities to become an 
active and contributing part of society. The Arc of Caddo-Bossier was 
founded in 1954 by a small group of parents with a mission to promote 
the growth of their children by developing programs and services to 
meet their needs. In 1996, the Arc of Caddo-Bossier Foundation was 
established to further promote community involvement and programs for 
people with mental disabilities. Today, the Arc of Caddo-Bossier still 
remains committed to their unique mission to help the needs of people 
with developmental disabilities and their families.
  It is with great pleasure that I first extend my support to the 
AbilityOne Program. Secondly, I commend the dedication and commitment 
of the Arc of Caddo-Bossier executive director, Janet Parker, and her 
staff for helping individuals who have a disability find employment. 
Their work helps people live fuller lives and become more active 
members of their community. I also commend each AbilityOne employee who 
works every day to improve their lives and make our country a better 
place to live.

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