[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 135 (Friday, September 19, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1473]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    GEORGIA INDUSTRIES FOR THE BLIND

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. AUSTIN SCOTT

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 18, 2014

  Mr. AUSTIN SCOTT of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, as we prepare to observe 
National Disability Employment Month this October, I am honored to 
recognize Georgia Industries for the Blind (GIB). GIB works in 
partnership with the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency to 
generate employment opportunities throughout Georgia in manufacturing 
and services for people who are blind. It is appropriate, at this, time 
to reflect on and celebrate their achievements.
  There remains a significant gap in employment for those with 
disabilities. Today, nearly seventy percent of workforce-eligible blind 
individuals remain unemployed.
  GIB has helped bridge the employment gap for blind individuals in 
Georgia since it began in 1949 by providing good jobs in manufacturing 
and service industries. They currently have four centers in Georgia 
that employ nearly 200 people, most of whom are blind, and generate 
over $12 million in annual sales. Furthermore, GIB was presented with 
the Commissioner's Cup Safety Award for 2013, a distinction considered 
to be the top workplace safety award in the State of Georgia.
  GIB demonstrates the importance of having an inclusive workforce. 
Their business success is not only measured in sales and awards, but 
also in changed lives by affording opportunities to those with 
disabilities. It is important for us to raise awareness regarding 
disability employment and the inherent value that employing those with 
disabilities brings to the workplace.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me, on behalf of Georgia's Eighth 
Congressional District, in recognizing GIB for its strong work and 
contributions to Georgia.

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