Month: June 2024

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Programs

Good Neighbors

The sweltering heat of summer is upon us.  Record-breaking temperatures have already hit the northeast.  We, here in the south, are always anticipating the “dog-days” of summer-but few can honestly say they enjoy the heat indices commonly above 105.

A healthy able-bodied person may go to the lake for a swim or take a cool dip in a pool.  So refreshing and what a relief!  Yet, for many with disabilities these options are not available.  Therefore, one must take precautions not to get overheated in this volatile time of the year.  It is common for people with spinal cord injuries not to have the ability to perspire, which is the body’s natural cooling system.  Also, as some people age their skin loses elastins (elasticity) thus keeping the skin taut.  This, in turn, causes the body not to perspire as it should.  Over-heating leads to heat-stroke and heat-stroke may lead to death. 

 As friends and neighbors, make it a point to call or visit a friend with a disability or the elderly especially if they are without air conditioning or live alone.  Maybe you could invite them over for a cool sip of lemonade.  Sound silly?  Please do not feel that way.  This not only shows your caring and concern, you may save a life.  Do your part to help us all make it through the dog-days of summer! 

Think about it!

Call us at 1-888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org for informational brochures like “Heat Wave – Heat Protection Safety” to show how you can help. These brochures were printed by individuals with disabilities and we provide them to the public free of charge. Thank you and God bless your kind heart!

Categories
Programs

Become an advocate for people with disabilities today!

What can we do to improve the lives of others, especially those with disabilities?

The dictionary describes an “advocate” as one who publicly supports or suggests an idea, development or way of doing something.

Here at Mays Mission, our primary goal is to aid and assist people with disabilities. Yes, putting to work those who may have difficulty finding gainful employment is one facet of our purpose yet there is so much more.

Public education regarding the abilities and capabilities of people with disabilities is of utmost importance. You see, through our various programs and direct mail, we have the opportunity to inform and educate the public throughout the country that given the opportunity, people with disabilities can become productive citizens.

Through our On-The-Job Training Program we have seen scores of people with a variety of disabilities come and go here at Mays Mission while others have chosen to stay with us. It’s heartwarming to know that some have bought their own homes, learned to drive and purchased automobiles, while some have moved on to bigger and better opportunities. Seeing people succeed and become more independent where at one time hope seemed lost is an indescribable feeling. This On-The-Job Training Program is only possible because of the kind hearts of our donors.

If you would like more information on becoming an advocate for people with disabilities we have free brochures like “The Spirit Of Volunteerism” or “On-The-Job Training” that were produced by employees with disabilities here at Mays Mission. Just call us at 1-888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org and we will send some out to you. Thank you for your support!

Categories
Programs

To Tell Or Not To Tell

Are you disabled and unemployed?  Do you have the feeling that if you tell a potential employer about your disability you won’t be hired?  Great news!  Since the inception of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, there has been a lot of progress for the disabled.

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (the “ADA”), an employer may ask disability-related questions and require medical examinations on an applicant only after the applicant has been given a conditional job offer.  However, employers can ask if you can meet the job requirements before being hired.

Another benefit that has occurred since ADA inception is Jobs Accommodation Network (JAN).  JAN is a free consulting service for employers, disabled employees and rehabilitation services. JAN provides free customized worksite accommodation solutions and technical assistance. It works in conjunction with the ADA and other disability-related laws and legislation.  It also provides job searching and a links to employers who are committed to hiring people with disabilities.   

 Last but not least, Mays Mission has made progress helping the disabled.  From on the job training for the disabled to scholarships to help disabled adults get a college degree.  Camperships are important to because the children and adults with disabilities experience recreational opportunities while being around others with similar disabilities.  This is why your support is so important to Mays Mission for the Handicapped and we sincerely thank you for your involvement in keeping the dream of Ewing W. Mays for a Mission to assist the disabled thriving.  He saw the ability in one’s disability.  His dream has given Mays Mission employees a chance to live productive lives. 

For more information on the Americans with Disability Act, contact us at 1-888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org.  For more information on JAN, go to  askjan.org online or call 1-800-526-7234 (1-877-781-9403 – TTY) – where you will get live professional assistance.

Please share your experiences in the comments section and thank you for supporting individuals with disabilities! And if you would like to share with your community we have brochures like “On-The-Job Training Employees With Disabilities” and “The Americans With Disabilities Act” just email us at info@maysmission.org and we would be glad to send you some free copies of these brochures that were produced by employees with disabilities right here at Mays Mission.

You can help individuals with disabilities by encouraging businesses in your area to employ people with disabilities.