People with Disabilities Archives

DRTC Supports Modernizing Policy to Benefit People with Disabilities

Posted on February 27, 2024February 27, 2024 by Dale Rogers Training Center

New bill would develop a transition plan away from subminimum wages in Oklahoma

DRTC applauds Representative Ellyn Hefner for introducing legislation to examine the future use of 14(c) certificate programs in Oklahoma. If approved, the measure could usher in a new wave of service and program modernization across the state.

House Bill 3796 would create a task force to examine and develop a plan to phase out the use of 14(c) subminimum wages paid to people with disabilities in Oklahoma.

“States that have phased out 14(c) considered a multitude of related aspects including high school-to-work transition programs, Medicaid administration, and non-work-related activities,” said DRTC Executive Director/CEO Deborah Copeland, M.Ed. “DRTC hopes the task force would find and recommend best practices across the country to develop an Oklahoma-specific solution.”

According to the Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE), 15 states have passed laws to eliminate subminimum wages paid to people with disabilities (July 2023). DRTC is a member of APSE, as well as SourceAmerica®, an AbilityOne® Program to employ people with disabilities. The AbilityOne® Program also eliminated the use of 14c subminimum wages for thousands of people with disabilities working on federal contracts (October 2022).

DRTC serves, trains or employs approximately 700 people with disabilities or limiting conditions annually. More than 100 of these workers at DRTC’s main campus are eligible to earn subminimum wages under the 14(c) certificate. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, nearly 1,200 Oklahomans currently earn subminimum wages (as of January 1, 2024).

DRTC has spearheaded the conversation in the transition away from 14(c) subminimum wages, leading a coalition comprised of state and provider agencies to address concerns facing Oklahoma. Additionally, DRTC participated in an interim study conducted by Reps. Hefner and Jared Deck that ultimately proposed the task force mentioned in HB3796.

“We are highly encouraged by the proposal for a task force,” said Copeland. “This is a great opportunity to modernize services and policy for Oklahomans with disabilities and their families. We hope Oklahoma’s lawmakers recognize the need to be prepared to serve some of their most vulnerable constituents throughout the process.”

Congresswoman Bice Recognized for Support of Disability Employment Program

Posted on November 21, 2023November 21, 2023 by Dale Rogers Training Center

Congresswoman becomes Oklahoma’s third current delegate with the distinction.

Honoring her commitment to a federal program designed to increase employment opportunities of people with disabilities, Dale Rogers Training Center (DRTC), along with NewView Oklahoma, proudly presented the AbilityOne® Congressional Champion Award to Congresswoman Stephanie Bice (OK-05) in her district office.

Congresswoman Bice demonstrated her support of the AbilityOne® Program through use of products made by partner agencies, as well as a site visit at Tinker Air Force Base in August, where she learned about DRTC’s custodial and food service contracts, and NewView Oklahoma’s products including wooden airplane chocks, hydraulic hoses and more.

“Supporting the AbilityOne® Program provides another voice that promotes disability-inclusion in the workplace and community,” said DRTC Executive Director Deborah Copeland, M.Ed. “We’re thankful Congresswoman Bice has placed this priority on a historically under-represented part of the workforce.”

Congresswoman Bice joins Senator James Lankford and Congressman Tom Cole as Oklahoma’s current delegates to hold the distinction from the AbilityOne® Program, which employs nearly 60,000 people nationwide through 575 nonprofit agencies (SourceAmerica®, Fiscal Year 2022).

“I am honored to receive the AbilityOne Congressional Champion Award,” said Congresswoman Bice. “AbilityOne employees are crucial in the day-to-day operations at Tinker Air Force Base and at numerous other facilities throughout the United States. I was overjoyed to have the ability to meet many of these inspiring individuals and l will continue working to support them during my time in Congress.”

According to a recent Mathematica report, the AbilityOne® Program generates $2.66 to the federal government for every $1 spent on the program. DRTC has a total economic impact of $2 million through its federal contracts held through SourceAmerica®, an AbilityOne® Program (Mathematica Socioeconomic Impact Evaluation Report).

DRTC has held the food service contract at Tinker Air Force Base for 30-years, preparing meals for military and civilian personnel around-the-clock. In addition, DRTC holds custodial contracts at Tinker Air Force Base, the FAA Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, and the Federal Courthouse, Federal Post Office, the Oklahoma City Federal Building, and the Murrah Plaza in downtown Oklahoma City. Combined, nearly 300 staff work on these contracts.

NewView Oklahoma, a National Industries for the Blind (NIB) and AbilityOne® associated agency, provides employment for individuals who are blind or living with low vision. The agency employs 120 full-time employees through AbilityOne® contracts, and 186 employees organization-wide.

Grant to Foster Entrepreneurship Among Oklahomans with Disabilities

Posted on October 31, 2023October 31, 2023 by Dale Rogers Training Center

People with disabilities seeking self-employment will have more opportunities to reach their goals, thanks in part to pandemic relief aid.

The Oklahoma County Board of Commissioners recently approved $100,000 in pandemic relief aid via the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) for DRTC to create an incubator/accelerator program designed to support people with disabilities to become self-employed.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for those looking to pave their own path and receive the resources needed to be successful in business,” said Deborah Copeland, M.Ed., DRTC Executive Director/CEO.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, people with a disability were more likely to be self-employed (9.5%) than those with no disability (6.1%).

DRTC’s Hub Business Incubator Program, with a tentative launch date in late 2023, will provide support and training for people with a disability interested in becoming entrepreneurs. Candidates will have the opportunity to develop their ideas through a business planning process. Another component involves mentorship comprised of established business leaders to provide guidance, support and advice for the entrepreneurs. Applicants interested in participating in the program should contact pr@drtc.org or call 405-946-4489 x1431.

Employability Honorees from DRTC’s 70th Anniversary Gala

Posted on October 11, 2023October 18, 2023 by Dale Rogers Training Center

As DRTC proudly celebrates its 70th Anniversary, we’re taking a moment to honor and recognize those individuals whose commitment embodies the organization’s core mission of leading the community toward a more disability-inclusive workforce.

Employment Services Client Spotlight Honoree – John Hamilton

Over and over John Hamilton has proven to be a flexible and adaptive employee for the OU Children’s Hospital. He is known for his consistently high-quality work over the past two years. An active listener and skilled communicator, John contributes positively to the overall performance of his team and company. Quiet and focused, it’s easy to see why he’s a valued staff and mentor for his co-workers.

Employment Services Direct Service Professional Spotlight Honoree – Vivian Naegeli

As an Employment Training Specialist and Supervisor for 18 years, Vivian Naegeli has supported more than 400 individuals with disabilities in their employment journey. Throughout her employment, Vivian has consistently assisted the most individuals in obtaining employment across the community. Proficient in American Sign Language and individualized support for people who are Deaf, Vivian is an unstoppable force in creating a more disability-inclusive workforce and community for Oklahoma.

Employment Services Employer Champion – Sodexo

A global leader in quality-of-life services essential for individual and organizational performance. Sodexo supports equal opportunity for all employees. Since 2016, DRTC has successfully partnered with Sodexo as an employer for more than 35 individuals with disabilities across 13 locations. Year after year, Sodexo’s commitment to hiring a disability-inclusive workforce through the DRTC Employment Services Program shines through.

DRTC Ability At Work Employer of the Year

Equitability Honorees

Capability Honorees

Dependability Honorees

DRTC Marks 70 Years in OKC

Posted on October 6, 2023October 6, 2023 by Dale Rogers Training Center

ATC Drivetrain Recognized as Inaugural Employer of the Year

DRTC, also known as Dale Rogers Training Center, celebrated its clients, employees, partners and donors, as well as 70 years of DRTC’s impact and achievements at its 70^th Anniversary Gala.

DRTC, founded in 1953 by a group of parents as an educational center for children with disabilities, has since transformed into a vocational and employment center. Every year, the private 501(c)3 nonprofit agency trains, serves, or employs approximately 1,000 people with disabilities. Last program year, people employed across DRTC’s vast programs earned more than $6 million in wages.

The event, held at the Embassy Suites Oklahoma City Downtown Medical Center, was emceed by 2021 Miss Oklahoma Ashleigh Robinson, who is a fierce advocate for Danielle, her younger sister with Down syndrome.

DRTC recognized the efforts of several people as well as business partners during the event across several categories: Equitability (Breaking Barriers), Capability (Business Partnerships), Employability (Disability-Inclusion in the Workplace), Dependability (Essential Heroes), culminating in the inaugural DRTC Ability At Work Employer of the Year Award, which was awarded to ATC Drivetrain, a world leader in remanufacturing of transmissions.

“Employers like ATC Drivetrain have embraced an inclusive workforce and we are thankful for their continued support of DRTC and hiring people with disabilities,” said Deborah Copeland, M.Ed., DRTC Executive Director/CEO.

DRTC is planning additional special events throughout 2023 to continue the celebration with clients, their caregivers, as well as employees at its federal contracts locations.

Complete list of honorees:

Kermit Walker – Vocational Services Spotlight Honoree
Angela Waldrop – Direct Services Provider Spotlight Honoree
Oklahoma City Zoo – Community Integrated Employment Employer Champion
Oklahoma Department of Transportation – State Use Champion
JASCO – Business Partnership Champion
KFOR – Media Partnership Champion
John Hamilton – Employment Services Spotlight Honoree
Vivian Naegeli – Employment Services, Direct Services Provider Spotlight Honoree
Sodexo – Employment Services Employer Champion
Myra Denson-Hartsock – AbilityOne® Spotlight Honoree
Jason Kelleher – AbilityOne® Spotlight Honoree
ATC Drivetrain – DRTC Ability At Work Employer of the Year

Congresswoman Stephanie Bice tours AbilityOne® Program at Tinker Air Force Base

Posted on August 25, 2023August 25, 2023 by Dale Rogers Training Center

Congresswoman Stephanie Bice (OK-05) spent part of her August recess learning how people with disabilities serve as a critical component for the federal government and the United States military.

Rep. Bice recently toured Vanwey Dining Facility, operated by Dale Rogers Training Center (DRTC), at Tinker Air Force Base. DRTC has held the food service contract through SourceAmerica®, an AbilityOne® Program, for 30-years, preparing meals for military and civilian personnel around-the-clock. In addition, DRTC holds custodial contracts at TAFB, cleaning 188 buildings on base in support of the mission at Tinker.

NewView Oklahoma, a National Industries for the Blind (NIB) and AbilityOne® associated agency, participated in Rep. Bice’s visit as well. NewView Oklahoma provides employment for individuals who are blind or living with low vision. The agency employs 120 full-time employees through AbilityOne® contracts, and 186 employees organization-wide. Those employees serve in various capacities through service contracts at military installations across the country, including Tinker Air Force Base. NewView also offers employment through their Oklahoma City manufacturing plant where they manufacture a diverse range of products including wooden airplane chalks, DLA hoses, hydraulic hoses, high pressure hoses, sanitation products, survival kits, first aid kits, and more.

AbilityOne® Program employees from both DRTC and NewView Oklahoma spoke with Congresswoman Bice about the importance of the employment program in their lives. Rep. Bice also learned more about the AbilityOne® Program from DRTC Executive Director/CEO Deborah Copeland, M.Ed., and NewView Oklahoma President & CEO Lauren Branch and how people with disabilities have gained meaningful employment through contracts via SourceAmerica® and NIB.

DRTC employs approximately 200 people at Tinker Air Force Base, among its three contracts on base.

“Through employment, our staff have been able to support their families, advance their careers, and develop their skills,” said Deborah Copeland. Executive Director and CEO of DRTC. “The AbilityOne® Program continues to prove its worth, generating $2.66 to the federal government for every one-dollar spent on the program.” (Mathematica Socioeconomic Impact Evaluation Report)

The unemployment rate for Americans living with vision-related disabilities is 67%; that equates to more than 48,000 Oklahomans eligible but not participating in the workforce. “The AbilityOne® program is a vital federal program that protects and encourages the employment of individuals living with disabilities. Without it, many of our neighbors would remain unemployed,” said Lauren Branch, President and CEO of NewView Oklahoma.

DRTC recognized Col. Abigail Ruscetta, Commander, 72^nd Air Base Wing, Tinker Air Force Base, Congresswoman Bice, and Senator Markwayne Mullin (whose staff attended the event) with a commemorative acrylic manufactured at the agency’s headquarters located at 2501 N. Utah Ave. in Oklahoma City.

Man smiling in front of kitchen smiling wearing DRTC shirt.

Rep. Bice smiling listening to DRTC employees speak in kitchen area.

DRTC Custodians to Ensure Smooth Operations for Tinker Air Show

Posted on June 29, 2023July 7, 2023 by Dale Rogers Training Center

Sights will be set skyward when the Tinker Air Show takes flight, but also important is ground-level activity. Custodian crews with Dale Rogers Training Center, Inc. (DRTC) are tasked with maintaining the grounds during the award-winning Tinker Air Show, July 1-2.

DRTC, a 501(c)3 private nonprofit organization, leads a more disability-inclusive workforce, assisting people with disabilities reach their employment goals. Nearly 300 people work at DRTC’s federal contract locations through SourceAmerica®, an AbilityOne® Program to employ people with disabilities.

“We’re excited to once again provide custodial services for the Tinker Air Show,” said Deborah Copeland, DRTC Executive Director. “This event provides another great opportunity to showcase the partnership between Tinker Air Force Base and DRTC, as well as the capabilities of our essential personnel.”

Custodians will be positioned throughout the event, ensuring clean operations for the two-day event. DRTC also provided custodial services at the 2019 Tinker Air Show.

The nonprofit agency, celebrating its 70^th year in 2023, recently finalized a 10-year contract with the Department of Defense to continue providing custodial services on base.

DRTC has provided custodial contract services at Tinker AFB since 2001, and contract food services at TAFB since 1993. In addition, DRTC also provides contract custodial services at the FAA Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, as well as the federal complex (Courthouse, Post Office, Oklahoma City Federal Building and the Murrah Plaza).

For questions regarding media access to the Tinker Air Show, call 405-739-2025 or email 72abw.pa.workflow@us.af.mil.

Youth with Disabilities Learn About Safe Interactions with Police

Posted on June 27, 2023June 27, 2023 by Dale Rogers Training Center

A new partnership between DRTC and IDD Safe aims to ensure safe encounters between people with disabilities and law enforcement. Participants of Camp Tumbleweed Academy had the opportunity to learn from retired law enforcement officers during their summer day camp activities. This initiative aims to equip these young individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate encounters with law enforcement in a safe and respectful manner.

During Camp Tumbleweed Academy, participants engaged in various activities focused on fostering safe interactions with the police. Retired law enforcement officers taught essential skills such as understanding body language, effectively communicating a disability, and participating in mock demonstrations within a safe environment. By learning these skills, the campers gained confidence and a better understanding of how to navigate encounters with law enforcement personnel.

In addition to the hands-on training received during the camp, campers and their families were provided with reference cards to carry with them at all times. These cards will serve as a quick reference guide, offering helpful tips and reminders on interacting with law enforcement. Furthermore, the campers were introduced to the De-escalating Officer Patrol Encounters (D.O.P.E.) app, developed by IDD Safe instructor Lt. Stan Campbell (Ret., OKCPD) and actress Tisha Campbell. This app provides de-escalation training for both citizens and officers, fostering better understanding and cooperation between the two parties.

Through the partnership between DRTC and IDD Safe, youth with disabilities that participated in Camp Tumbleweed Academy gained essential knowledge and skills to interact safely with law enforcement. By involving retired law enforcement officers and providing practical training, this program empowers campers to navigate encounters with confidence and respect. The distribution of reference cards and the introduction of the D.O.P.E. app further support the campers and their families in promoting safer interactions. This partnership represents a positive step toward fostering understanding and inclusivity within communities and encourages further efforts to ensure the well-being of all individuals, including those with disabilities.

Download your own safety card at iddsafe.com

Watch Fox 25’s story here.

DRTC Academy

Posted on December 20, 2022March 13, 2023 by Dale Rogers Training Center

First Class of DRTC Academy Recognized

With the anticipated phase-out of subminimum wages on the horizon, DRTC (Dale Rogers Training Center) recently highlighted the accomplishments of its first class to complete the new DRTC Academy. The agency recognized 28 job seekers currently employed at DRTC, a nonprofit agency that leads a more disability-inclusive workplace and community, during a ceremony on December 13.

“The DRTC Academy is designed as an educational outreach for people with disabilities and their families to support their transition to competitive employment,” said DRTC Executive Director Deborah Copeland, M.Ed.

A United Way of Central Oklahoma donor-directed grant established The DRTC Academy, which is being considered as a model in neighboring states. Participants advance through each self-paced module, which include navigating the challenges of employment, self-advocacy, and more. A Competitive Integrated Employment Case Manager provides individualized instruction and group support.

In addition to becoming better prepared for community employment, participants completing the pilot program courses received a stipend for their dedication to re-imagining their future in employment.

Two women standing in front of DRTC branded backdrop smiling at camera, one woman holding certificate and coin.

Governor’s Disability Employment Awards 2022

Posted on November 11, 2022November 14, 2022 by Dale Rogers Training Center

DRTC was well represented at the 35th Annual Governor’s Disability Employment Awards. Employment Training Specialists nominated award recipients Jeremy, Joshua, Peter, and businesses Epworth Villa and Crest Foods. The DRTC Employment Training Specialists who helped their clients achieve this recognition are Vivian, Caitlin, Kim, and Denise.

Jeremy who is holding his certificate and Vivian from DRTC — Jeremy and his Employment Training Specialist Vivian

Jeremy: Jeremy’s life has improved greatly after gaining integrated employment. Jeremy has purchased a car, paid off some of his debt, and has moved into an upscale apartment. Jeremy’s social life has also improved after reconnecting with family and friends. Jeremy is a member of a foosball tournament team and participates in events in both Oklahoma and Texas. Jeremy began his employment history at Administrative Advantage in Norman. During Jeremy’s work at Administrative Advantage, he had simple tasks verifying insurance documentation. His duties increased and became more complex by implementing solutions and problem solving issues with patients, doctors, and insurance companies. Jeremy’s confidence grew as he became more successful. His manager at one point moved Jeremy to the front area of the business because of his customer service skills and friendly personality. He then became an employee of Marriott as a full-time night auditor. Jeremy is extremely focused while performing his duties and has outstanding customer service skills. During his employment, Jeremy has improved his problem-solving skills and has learned when to express concerns to his supervisor. Jeremy demonstrates dedication to work daily with a positive attitude!

Joshua with his arm around Caitlin from DRTC. — Joshua and his Employment Training Specialist Caitlin

Joshua: Joshua’s confidence has grown tremendously since he started working. He is now comfortable initiating conversations with customers and his coworkers. Joshua also looks forward to participating in company holiday parties, birthday parties, and participating in Employee Appreciation Days! Joshua started his very first job as a Sacker at Crest. He was initially uncomfortable interacting with others. Now he is able to provide excellent service to the customers and assist them confidently. Joshua quickly learned which items to sack together and is always cautious to handle the customer’s groceries with care. He demonstrates pride in his work and inspects it for quality after completion. Recently, Joshua has taken on additional responsibilities, including cart-pushing and stocking duties when the store is shorthanded. When stocking, Joshua will face each item and shelve it neatly. He also reorganizes other items on the shelf in disarray. Joshua’s supervisors stated that he is always willing to help wherever the store needs it!

Caitlin and Peter who is holding his certificate. — Peter and his Employment Training Specialist Caitlin

Peter: Peter has been able to manage attending college classes and working. His self confidence has significantly grown due to his employment. Peter has learned to manage personal finances and demonstrates the ability to make responsible decisions based on personal needs. Peter has become more confident in interacting with others and will initiate conversation. Peter submitted a drawing for Autism Awareness Week which was recognized and posted in the cafeteria of the hospital. He still volunteers regularly in the stock room at another hospital where he has established more positive working relationships. Peter follows all hospital policy and procedures accurately when delivering patient trays and sanitizing. Peter has experience volunteering in a hospital setting, so this prepared him to navigate throughout the hospital and recognize signage easily. Peter has demonstrated competence in hospital policy and problem-solving abilities. Peter is able to navigate the hospital, deliver trays, sanitize required surfaces, and assist coworkers with minimal to no supervision. Peter takes it upon himself to ensure all food carts are stocked with condiments and sanitized properly. Peter is dependable and takes pride in his work!

Sherri who is holding a certificate, Kim, and Anthony. — Sherri, Employment Training Specialist Kim, and Anthony with Epworth Villa

Epworth Villa: There are three Epworth Villa Supervisors, Anthony and Sherri in Housekeeping, and Jamie in Dining Services who have been instrumental in the success of individuals with disabilities with disabilities working with them. They have been flexible in adapting the job tasks and work location for the two most recent individuals with disabilities working for them. When applicants are recruited and interviewed to work at Epworth, they are provided information about the job and what is expected. The interviews are not rushed and all questions are answered including whether there are work accommodations that might be needed in order for the person to work successfully. The job coach is also included in the interviews to assist in negotiating the needed accommodations. Epworth Villa has followed through with all requested accommodations. Epworth Villa is a business that supports and respects the desire for a person with a disability to become an employee who then contributes to the success of the facility. Epworth Villa is an employer that recognizes how individuals with disabilities can demonstrate their abilities at work!

Denise from DRTC, Dakota, and Tonya from Crest Foods. — DRTC Employment Training Specialist Denise, Dakota, and Tonya with Crest

Crest Foods: Crest Foods and Tonya have demonstrated the commitment to assisting persons with disabilities to expand their employment goals. Tonya leads a Crest management team of wonderful individuals who support, encourage, and expect the best from all their employees. Crest has been a leader in employing persons with disabilities as they have experienced many times the great employees they become. The most outstanding accommodation that Crest has provided to employees is the adjustment of work schedules. Crest is also known for their “Sacker School,” which not only trains employees on the proper way to sack groceries, but also helps to improve the efficiency and speed of serving the customer. Employees with disabilities participate as part of the Crest team. One specific example is the opportunity to attend the Crest employee day at Frontier City. All employees are expected to step up and fill in where needed and this includes the employees with disabilities. This enhances the workplace culture where all contribute to the store’s success.

Tag: People with Disabilities