10 · SATURDAY, AUGUST 26, 2017 LENDINGAHAND worried or misinformed about howmuch money it might cost to accommodate people with disabilities when, in fact, the costs to them are often minimal, Badger said. “And there’s a concern that people with disabilities can’t do the work and might take more days off,” she said. “Statistically, though, people with disabilities are known for taking less days off than their able-bodied peers, so that’s just a huge misconception.” There are also concerns from the perspective of those with disabilities, he said, specifically the fear of losing government benefits. Badger understands those fears. “I require 24-hour care and a ventilator and a whole mess of stuff, but regular private insurance would not pay for the long-term services I require,” she said. “I have to maintain medical assistance and government-provided insurance to be able to continue to live on my own, stay healthy and be able to work.” The trouble is, she said those programs have an income limit, and too often people with disabilities fear that if they do find a job, they’ll go over that limit and lose the benefits they need. Badger uses Pennsylvania’s Medical Assistance Benefits for Workers with Disabilities program, or MAWD, in order to earn an income and stay within the limits to receive benefits, she said. But while organizations such as Achieva and the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation can help navigate the system, it still isn’t easy. “I’m hoping that through Employment First, it will become a whole lot easier,” she said. The #IWantToWork campaign likely will end after the Employment First legislation is passed, Badger said, but she hopes that by involving young people in the movement, people with disabilities will realize they can Lewis Hall (left) and Josie Badger (right) pose for a photo with Rep. Bryan Cutler (R-Peach Bottom), one of the state representatives responsible for introducing the Employment First PA legislation in the state House of Representatives. and should have a role in government and can make a difference. “I hope those advocates can one day surpass the extent of our campaign,” she said. For now, the bill is not scheduled for a vote. In order to express support for the legislation, Hall said, people can follow #IWantToWork on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and go to their website, iwanttoworkpa.org, to find sample letters and information needed to contact their local legislators. They also have a change.org petition at change.org/p/support-employment-firstlegislation for-pennsylvania and as of mid- August were just 46 signatures shy of their goal of 1,000. “I’d have to say if this passes, it will be my greatest accomplishment,” said Hall, who plans to go to law school. “I think it will permanently help people with disabilities find gainful employment, and that will be amazing to see when people in Pennsylvania have SUBMITTED the ability to find better employment and live a more integrated life. “Being disabled isn’t the center of my world, it just adds a layer of complexity to my life. I still want to buy a house and marry my girlfriend one day. I have the same goals as everyone else, and getting a job and finding quality employment is the first step toward that. If this legislation can ease that path for someone else, it would mean the world to me.” My Wedding Planner features articles on the latest trends, tips, and traditions; plus information on local and regional bridal services and businesses. This beautiful full-color glossy publication is a must-have for planning your special day! Call Andrea at 724-853-5059 today for your FREE copy. Promote your business to local couples! If you would you like to advertise in our next issue, please call Carolyn at 724-853-5055. adno=6X3-FIL-4
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