In January of this year, under the leadership of Relay Resources Director of Disability Inclusion Megan Almrayatee, we launched a Supported Employment program that offers competitive integrated employment.
We are thrilled to announce that Megan and her team recently won the award for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access in recognition of this strong partnership with the Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program at Oregon. To be recognized for such great work in a relatively short time period is a huge accomplishment, and we want to celebrate their success. The Oregon VR is a program of the Oregon Department of Human Services. There are no income requirements, and you do not need to be receiving disability benefits in order to qualify for their services.
This award honors the team’s person-centered, compassionate approach to supporting people with disabilities on their employment journey. As Aarynn Cypher, VR counselor, says, “Relay Resources has set an inspiring standard in promoting equity and inclusion through their compassionate and person-centered approach to employment services for VR participants. Their job developers exemplify what it means to walk alongside individuals – not only helping establish meaningful employment goals, but doing so in a way that uplifts each person’s inherent dignity, self-worth, and life journey.”
Aaron continues, “At the heart of their work is a deep respect for every individual’s unique potential. Relay Resources honors the diverse backgrounds and aspirations of VR participants, ensuring that job development is never a one-size-fits-all service, but a relationship grounded in care, understanding, and unwavering belief in each person’s value.”
Relay Resources CEO Dr. Jennifer Camota-Luebke added, “We are proud to celebrate Megan and team for leading with heart and demonstrating what true inclusion looks like in action.”
For more on vocational rehabilitation at the state of Oregon, check out their video: