First Lady Mary Pat Christie Highlights Importance of Skills Training to Empower People with Disabilities to Succeed in the Workforce

From the Governor's Office:

Trenton, NJ – New Jersey First Lady Mary Pat Christie got a first-hand look at job training activities for people with disabilities today during a tour of Morristown’s The Daily Plan It, one of several organizations operated by Community Options Inc. Mrs. Christie’s visit is part of her ongoing commitment to recognize groups and agencies that encourage and inspire people to have pride in themselves and their state.

“No matter who you are, furthering your education and receiving new skills is critical to feeling confident in the workforce.  This center provides people living with disabilities the skills they need to truly be empowered through employment,” said Mrs. Christie. “I commend Community Options Inc. for the good work they are doing everyday to help incorporate these individuals into the workforce, and strengthening their participation in our larger New Jersey community.”

The Daily Plan It is a professional conference and copy center where space is made available to small business owners to develop and operate entrepreneurial businesses that train and employ people with disabilities.  The employees provide the entire infrastructure of the business from phone reception and copying to mail delivery and cleaning.

“I feel very fortunate that we are able to have First Lady Christie to our Morristown Daily Plan It,” said Robert Stack, founder and CEO of Community Options. “The Daily Plan It is at the essence of what we do – social inclusion – where a person’s disability does not define who they are or what they are capable of doing”.

After the tour, Mrs. Christie participated in a roundtable meeting with agency officials to further discuss training models for people with disabilities.

Incorporated in 1989, Community Options, Inc. helps develop residential and employment supports for people with severe disabilities, utilizing technology and training. Today, Community Options has grown to encompass 24 offices in nine states, including three offices in New Jersey.  The organization is renowned for providing quality, cost effective administration that encourages individual choice and flexibility.