IT is something of an understatement to say that the primary measure of “success” for the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation otherwise known as OVR which is employment for individuals with disabilities rests almost entirely in the hands of employers. Put another way, OVR would not exist, if not for employers. And yet, contrary to popular belief, the onus for getting and maintaining employment still rests squarely on the individuals themselves, not on OVR and certainly not on the employers. Individuals with disabilities, like everyone else, still have a responsibility to be qualified for the jobs that they want to hold and, given individual will and determination, OVR can assist in making that happen.
No doubt persons with disabilities face unique challenges and barriers to employment which their non-disabled peers do not, but that in and of itself does not entitle them employment. It does however entitle them to a series of special class legal protections, government benefits and services, but not to employment itself.
The CNMI has a unique (to my knowledge no other state in the nation has anything remotely similar) collaborative spirit among several of its local agencies tasked with coordinating, facilitating and providing said entitlements and services on behalf of individuals with disabilities. Known as the Disability Network Partners or DNP, we stand in solidarity around the common mission of helping all people with disabilities to achieve their employment goals, live independent lives as contributing members of our community and in support of their general quest for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. The core partners of the DNP (this is not an exhaustive list), their respective mission/functions and contact information include the following:
• Center for Living Independently: “To ensure the rights of people with disabilities to live independently and fully integrated within the community.”
Call (670) 322-4303/04 / 287-4304 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• Council on Developmental Disabilities: “To promote systems change to ensure that individuals with disabilities and their families have the same opportunities as others in the community." Call (670) 664-7000 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• University Centers of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities: “To promote, support and enhance the independence, productivity, integration, and inclusion of individuals with disabilities and their families in the community.” Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• Northern Marianas Protection & Advocacy Systems Inc.: “To protect the civil, legal and human rights of individuals with disabilities” through legally based advocacy. Call (670) 235-7273/4 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• Office of Vocational Rehabilitation/Office of the Governor: “To promote independence and increase employment among individuals with disabilities in the CNMI.” Call (670) 322-6537/8 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Employment of people with disabilities is not common place and often takes coordinated, proactive efforts by a team of people to make it happen. Despite the countless examples of people with disabilities being excellent employees, they still have to contend with prejudice and discrimination even from employers. That being said, it gives us great pleasure to recognize the handful of employers who do not shy away from opportunities to partner with OVR in making employment goals for our clients a reality. More specifically, OVR in partnership with other DNP members acknowledge and thank the following employers for their extended partnerships this past year in providing work experience, on-the-job training and, in a few cases, full-time employment for individuals with disabilities.
Employers
DCCA-DYS
August Supermarket
Kinpachi
Joeten Kiyu Public Library
PSS-MHS
PSS-SSHS
DPW-Tinian
Tinian Ice & Water Bottling Company
PSS-KHS
DPS-Rota
Delta Management-Shell
Center of Living Independently
JJ & K Company
Tinian Mayor's Office
Hyatt
Joeten Superstore
Green Meadow
Tinian Western Lodge
When asked, “What message they’d like to convey to employers and community members during NDEAM regarding the importance of inclusion and equal opportunities in the workforce?,” our OVR counselors shared a common theme of, “give them a chance.”
To quote a couple of them:
- “Open your doors to our qualified individuals with disabilities and give them the opportunity to show their potential and what they can offer to your company.” – Rose Ichiuo, VR counselor
- “Give persons with disabilities an opportunity to be employed and take advantage of OVR’s programs on work employment training and on the job training.” – Ray Diaz, VR counselor
As for any advice to individuals with disabilities who are looking to secure employment, “Active participation is the key to achieving your employment goal…utilize the resources provided by OVR and participate fully in your application and individualized plan for employment.”
For more on National Disability Employment Awareness Month and/or the Disability Network Partners, please contact the OVR office or any of the listed partners via above contact information.
Office of Vocational Rehabilitation team led by director James Rayphand
I was a guidance counselor at NMC Upward Bound Program the first time I got to work with a student with disability who was interested in attending Northern Marianas College after high school. In the context of vocational rehabilitation, we call this pre-employment transition services, more specifically “counseling on opportunities for enrollment in comprehensive transition or postsecondary educational programs at institutions of higher education.” That experience, in addition to having a relative who has mental illness, inspired me to become a vocational rehabilitation counselor. I find my work most rewarding when the consumers fully participate in their rehabilitation plans and obtain employment.
As an example of the many ways OVR can assist individuals with disabilities to achieve their employment goals, I am reminded of a particular person with an intellectual disability who was very shy and reached out to OVR to seek employment. This person had difficulty in completing a job application and comprehending conversations due to her low reading level. OVR provided work experience training in an office environment, adult readiness training, work apparel, and on-the-training in a retail store environment. Through the experience and encouragement, the person learned to be more open with other individuals and seek assistance when needed. Eventually, at the end of her OJT program, the consumer was hired by the company as a regular employee. Ultimately, our primary goal at OVR is to help people with disabilities in every way allowable in order that their disabilities do not hinder their employment goals and that they get hired. This was an example of a successful outcome (“Status 26: Closed Successfully Rehabilitated”).
Additionally, we provide counseling, guidance, along with information and referral to consumers at Northern Marianas College or Northern Marianas Technical Institute to help them achieve employment. It might take longer for individuals with disabilities to complete their academic program and obtain college degrees, which makes counseling and guidance such an important service to ensure that they complete their degree program and continue to believe in themselves and believe that they can do anything. Providing information and referral is also important because consumers can use the information and seek proper assistance to achieve employment.
Consumers have rights and responsibilities when they engage with OVR. These rights include confidentiality of information—all the information provided to OVR is kept confidential. Personal information is used for the purpose directly connected with the provision of vocational rehabilitation services. All information is kept confidential in accordance with federal, state, and local laws.
These rights also include the right to contact and avail of the Client Assistance Program, otherwise known as CAP with the Northern Marianas Protection & Advocacy Systems, Inc. The Client Assistance Program provides assistance in informing and advising the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation consumer and applicants of all available benefits under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. CAP also seeks to assist OVR applicants and consumers, when requested, in their relationships with projects, programs, and facilities providing services to them under the Rehabilitation Act. This includes assistance in pursuing legal, administrative or other appropriate remedies to ensure the protection of the rights of consumers under this program.
Collaborating with employers by having meaningful conversation and providing information to create inclusive workplaces that benefit both workers with disabilities and their employers is another critical function of our counselors at OVR. I say meaningful conversation because I want employers to understand individuals with disabilities are people too. They want to be respected and given the opportunity to show their talents.
It is important to have assistive technology and accommodations in helping individuals with disabilities to be successful in the workplace. There are individuals with disabilities who would need a low assistive technology such as putting a stack of books to elevate the computer or high assistive technology such as motorized wheelchair. It is important for employers to be aware of job accommodations, which they can seek JAN (Job Accommodation Network), www.askjan.com for assistance.
Finally, as a long-time counselor, I would advise and highly recommend that individuals with disabilities who are looking to secure employment learn to self-advocate and utilize resources provided by OVR. I encourage individuals with disabilities to make connections with the Disability Network Partners in the community, which can also provide resources to achieve employment.
I encourage employers and community members to see individuals with disabilities as contributing members of society. Employers should see them for their abilities, not their disabilities.
For more on the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation and the services provided therein, contact us at (670) 322-6537/8 or here.
In honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, I am excited to spotlight a couple of transformative programs that have not only proven extremely advantageous for Delta Management but have also paved the way for employment opportunities for the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation consumers.
Delta Management proudly operates five Shell-branded service stations on Saipan and has forged a fruitful partnership with OVR, participating in both the work experience and on-the-job training programs for several years. These initiatives bear the remarkable benefit of funding employee wages, making them a low-risk endeavor for employers.
As entrepreneurs, we should be actively seeking ways to dismantle the barriers preventing this particular group of citizens from securing interviews and employment. It's important to note that individuals with disabilities are a protected class under the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, akin to age, sex, and race, and cannot be subjected to discrimination. These programs offer OVR consumers access to employment opportunities that they might not otherwise have. If you've ever encountered challenges in finding suitable candidates for your business, and haven't yet explored the possibilities with OVR, now is the perfect time to do so.
Given the ongoing labor challenges in the CNMI, these programs offer an invaluable solution for employers, allowing them to identify, interview, assess, and onboard OVR consumers who have demonstrated success.
The process commences with businesses providing OVR with the essential prerequisites for consumer success. These could include the ability to stand for extended periods, lift objects, and possess basic communication or math skills. OVR carefully screens its consumers to match the most suitable candidates with these requirements. Given the diversity of disabilities among OVR consumers, precision in defining your needs is key.
The next step involves a meeting or interview with the consumer, typically conducted at the OVR office and attended by the OVR counselor and the consumer's advocate, such as a parent or guardian. It's important to remember that many of these consumers may lack experience with interviews or jobs. As an employer, your role in this relationship is to offer encouragement, training, and guidance to help them become experienced and effective employees.
The key to success lies in identifying consumers who are eager and willing, and then equipping them with the necessary job skills for success.
Upon deciding to accept the consumer, the work experience program begins, which entails processing requirements and paperwork, taking roughly a month before the consumer starts working. After demonstrating their ability to meet the basic job requirements during the three-month work experience program, you can collaborate with OVR to transition to the on-the-job training program. On occasion, you may find that a consumer isn't able to perform the job, in which case the work experience can be terminated without proceeding to on-the-job training.
At the conclusion of the on-the-job training program, the consumer can be officially hired. At Delta Management, we've achieved a remarkable 100% success rate, with consumers evolving into valuable team members and even earning promotions. We take great pride in our track record and remain committed to attracting talent to meet our growing business needs.
Here are some key practices that have made our partnership with OVR successful:
1. Approach this program with the intent of finding a dedicated employee.
2. Understand that while there may be a more extended training process, the outcome is an effective and loyal employee. Once they've learned the job, they often excel.
3. Ensure your staff responsible for training the consumer understands that learning may take longer and that encouragement is crucial.
4. Regularly seek feedback from trainers regarding the consumer's progress and make adjustments as necessary.
5. Maintain regular check-ins with the consumer to gauge progress and address any challenges they may be encountering.
6. Treat the consumer like any other employee, holding them to the same standards as other staff members in terms of punctuality and code of conduct policies, but with a little extra care and understanding.
7. Promptly report any issues with the consumer to the OVR counselor for swift resolution.
I strongly encourage employers to explore the opportunities available for these consumers in your business. The experience is not only rewarding, but we have found that these employees are exceptionally dedicated and loyal. OVR's training programs have made a significant impact on our business at Delta Management, and I wholeheartedly recommend reaching out to OVR to see how these programs can align with your company's goals.
Jim Arenovski is president of Delta Management Corp., which operates five Shell gas stations on Saipan.
THE CNMI Office of Vocational Rehabilitation otherwise known as OVR exists to help people with disabilities obtain and/or retain jobs in order to be self-reliant. But here’s something else: OVR would not exist without employers who are the hidden gems of OVR. How so? Because with employers, people with disabilities have a job to go to.
Think about it this way: OVR helps people with disabilities prepare for the workforce by connecting them with employers. This includes things like training and gaining work experience. But the real magic happens when employers open their doors to consumers (aka clients) and give them a chance to shine.
Now, let’s talk about why employers are amazingly important. First, in partnership with OVR, they offer something called work experience training. It’s like a practice run for the real job. Imagine learning to swim by actually swimming — that’s how important work experience is. And employers can make this happen, and it’s a huge deal!
But that’s not all. Employers, through OVR, also offer on-the-job training, or OJT. This is like having a personal coach in the workplace. They guide and support people with disabilities, helping them to become great and efficient at their job.
At OVR, we appreciate our employers very much. They’re like the special ingredient that makes everything come together nicely. Without them, the success stories we see promoted by OVR wouldn’t be possible.
Imagine a person who couldn’t find a job because of their disability. Now, picture them with a job, earning their own money, and feeling proud of the work they do. This change in their life is huge —it’s life-changing! And it’s all thanks, in great part, to our employers.
So, next time you hear about OVR and the amazing work they do, remember the hidden gems — the employers. They’re the ones making dreams come true, one job at a time. Together, we are changing lives for the better.
On Oct. 26, OVR, together with our collaborating partners, will be sponsoring the Annual Employers Recognition Ceremony, in which about 20 employers will be recognized for their valued contributions to disability employment. Stay tuned!
For more on the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation and the various ways it can help people with disabilities to obtain or maintain employment, please call (670) 322-6537/8 or contact us here.
Gov. Arnold I. Palacios and Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang pose with advocates and individuals with disabilities last Sept. 28, 2023, in front of the Office of the Governor after a proclamation signing that declared the month of October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
Last Sept. 28, 2023, Gov. Arnold I. Palacios and Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang held an intimate gathering of individuals with disabilities and various advocates for a proclamation signing to declare the month of October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month, commonly referred to as NDEAM. “Advancing Access and Equity: Then, Now and Next” is the nationally recognized theme for the month
NDEAM's roots go back to 1945 when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October each year "National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week." In 1962, the word "physically" was removed to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to "National Disability Employment Awareness Month." Upon its establishment in 2001, the Office of Disability Employment Policy assumed responsibility for NDEAM and has worked to expand its reach and scope ever since.
Our Gov. Palacios (landing a mere few hours off a whirlwind trip to the nation’s capital for meetings with President Joe Biden and other leaders from the Pacific region) pointed out at last week’s ceremony that, “We’ve been doing this every year and I continue to be impressed by [so many of you]. …It’s important that we keep doing everything we can to recognize ‘the valued contributions people with disabilities make in our nation’s workplaces’ and make sure that every citizen is included in any programs or employment opportunities, whether it be in government or in private businesses. It’s important that we continue to advocate for those who may in one way or another have some sort of disability.”
Essentially, he was acknowledging individuals with disabilities at the ceremony who, despite the challenges inherent with having a disability, continue to persevere in the workplace and lead meaningful lives as contributing members of our community.
Among the speakers during the proclamation signing, John Cabrera, a young man who uses a wheelchair as a result of a spinal injury incurred during a car accident when he was 10 years old, shared that (thanks in large part to community advocates and general support from disability-related programs acknowledging his abilities and advocating with him) he has “been gainfully employed for 14 years—10 years with OVR and four with NMPASI.”
For his part, Preston Basa, vice chairperson for the State Rehabilitation Council, former special education teacher and current vice principal of Marianas High School, reminded everyone in a written statement read by Interim Education Commissioner Donna Flores that “NDEAM serves as a platform to bring attention to the importance of creating inclusive workplaces that provide equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities. It encourages employers to hire, retain, and promote people with disabilities, recognizing the unique skills and perspectives they bring to the workforce. Throughout the month of October, various organizations, employers, advocacy groups, and government agencies across the nation conduct events, workshops, and outreach programs to educate the public about disability employment issues and promote a more inclusive workforce.”
Furthermore, he reminded everyone that just two days prior to the proclamation ceremony, “we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. On Sept. 26, 1973, this important law was passed to ensure that people with disabilities have equal opportunities and access to various aspects of life, just like everyone else. Before this law, life was often much harder for people with disabilities. They faced discrimination, and it was tough to get an education or a good job. Imagine a world where some doors are open to you, but others are closed simply because of who you are or the challenges you face.”
“Fundamentally,” he said, “this law is all about ensuring that people with disabilities are not left behind, that they have the same opportunities as everyone else. It is about removing barriers and opening doors.”
A timely note in the proclamation reads that, “Welcoming the talents of all people, including people with disabilities, is a critical part of our efforts to build an inclusive community and strong economy.” Still, employment of people with disabilities is not commonplace for a variety of factors; unfortunately, in many cases due simply to a lack of will or preconceived notions about people with disabilities from employers. Despite the countless examples of people with disabilities being excellent employees, they still have to contend with prejudice and discrimination often due to perceived inabilities regardless of their actual abilities.
As of August 2023 the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the unemployment rate for people with disabilities at 7.9% versus 3.8% for their non-disabled peers—more than double. Locally, of 193 individuals who sought VR services in fiscal year 2023, only 31 were or have been employed—somewhere around 16%. For emphasis, that’s just people with disabilities who sought and were deemed eligible for VR services this past fiscal year.
The point being that anything any of us can do to incentivize employers or entice them to think twice before dismissing the possibility of hiring someone with a disability would be welcomed—everyone should be an advocate!
Our Disability Network Partners stand in solidarity around the common mission of helping all people with disabilities to achieve their employment goals, live independent lives as contributing members of our community and in support of their general quest for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Though much has been done and we have come a long way, there is still much more to be done.
In the heartfelt words of our lieutenant governor, “Nobody should be singled out from enjoying all the great resources that God has given us. …All the resources we find and use on this earth (including love, protection and care) should be shared among all. Thank you all for keeping the work and purpose that you serve going.”
For more on NDEAM or the CNMI’s Disability Network Partners, please contact the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation under the Office of the Governor at (670) 322-6537/8 or send us a message here.
My name is Jim Rayphand. I work under the Office of the Governor as the Director for the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation otherwise known as OVR.
I am mindful of lobbying restrictions applicable to me and OVR as recipient of federal grant funds used in the administration of Vocational Rehabilitation programs namely that I may not influence or attempt to influence legislation by advocating for the adoption or rejection of proposed legislation. I’m not here to do either – that decision is, of course, best left up to you.
Rather I come before you to share some stark realities about the employment of people with disabilities. I’d be remiss not to note that just last week our Governor and Lt. Governor proclaimed the month of October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month as a reminder, among other things, “of the valued contributions people with disabilities make in our Nation’s workplaces… Welcoming the talents of all people, including people with disabilities, are a critical part of our efforts to build an inclusive community and strong economy.”
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics – these are the most current figures I could find:
As of August 2023 the unemployment rate for people with disabilities was listed at 7.9% versus 3.8% for their non-disabled peers – more than double.
Locally, of 193 individuals who sought VR services in FY 2023 only 31 were or have been employed – somewhere around 16% … for emphasis, that’s just people with disabilities who sought and were deemed eligible for VR services.
Employment of people with disabilities is not common place… for a variety of factors and yes, in many cases due to a lack of will from employers. Despite the countless examples of people with disabilities being excellent employees, they still have to contend with prejudice and discrimination even from employers.
The point being that anything this body or anybody can do to incent employers or entice them to think twice before dismissing the possibility of hiring someone with a disability would be a good thing.
I’ll end by saying that our Disability Network Partners stand in solidarity around the common mission of helping all people with disabilities to achieve their employment goals, live independent lives as contributing members of our community and in support of their general quest for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
John Cabrera, second from right, delivers his welcoming remarks during the Proclamation Signing Ceremony for National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) at the Governor’s conference room on 9/28/23. Also in photo are Honorable Governor Arnold Palacios, Honorable Lt. Governor David Apatang, and OVR Director Jimbo Rayphand (partially hidden). This year’s theme is “Advancing Access and Equity: Then, Now and Next.”
Welcoming Remarks by SRC Secretary John Cabrera
Good morning everyone. My name is John Cabrera. I am the Secretary for the State Rehabilitation Council, I am a Client Advocate at NMPASI and I am also a self-advocate.
I would like to officially welcome you all to the 2023 National Disability Employment Awareness Month Proclamation Signing.
NDEAM is nationally celebrated every October and is dedicated to both raising awareness about disability employment and promoting the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in the workforce.
I am moved to be here before you as living proof that disabilities do not have to be barriers to meaningful and rewarding employment. I worked at OVR for 10 years, and have been with NMPASI for 4 years now, with a total of 14 years and counting, being gainfully employed.
I have had the privilege of working in a supportive and inclusive environment, where my abilities are valued over any limitations. My journey has been marked by challenges, resilience, and the unwavering support of family, colleagues, community partners, and employers who believe in the power of diversity and inclusion.
During this month and beyond, let us commit ourselves to the mission of NDEAM, not only in words but in actions. Let us champion the rights and opportunities of individuals with disabilities, ensuring they can fully participate in the workforce and contribute their unique talents to our communities and industries.
I extend my gratitude to all of you for being here today, for your dedication to the cause of disability employment, and for your unwavering support. Together, we can build a more inclusive and equitable future where every individual, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to thrive and succeed in the workplace.
Thank you for joining us as we celebrate NDEAM and let us continue to work together to make meaningful change happen.
Proclamation Speech by SRC Vice Chair Preston Basa on Brief History of NDEAM and Rehab Act
Preston Basa, Vice Chairperson, CNMI State Rehabilitation Council (SRC)Hafa Adai & Tirow,
Today, I would like to share a brief history on National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
The NDEAM serves as a platform to bring attention to the importance of creating inclusive workplaces that provide equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities. It encourages employers to hire, retain, and promote people with disabilities, recognizing the unique skills and perspectives they bring to the workforce. Throughout the month of October, various organizations, employers, advocacy groups, and government agencies across the nation conduct events, workshops, and outreach programs to educate the public about disability employment issues and promote a more inclusive workforce.
A couple of days ago, we celebrated the 50th Anniversary of this law. On September 26, 1973, this important law was passed to ensure that people with disabilities have equal opportunities and access to various aspects of life, just like everyone else. Before this law, life was often much harder for people with disabilities. They faced discrimination, and it was tough to get an education or a good job. Imagine a world where some doors are open to you, but others are closed simply because of who you are or the challenges you face. The Rehabilitation Act was designed to change that and open more doors for people with disabilities.
A key part of this law is Section 504. It said that places that got money from the federal government could not discriminate against people with disabilities. They had to make their places and programs accessible to everyone. This was a big deal because it meant that people with disabilities could be a part of everything, just like everyone else.
The impact of this law has been huge. It led the way for laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which is still in effect today to make sure that everyone has a fair shot. Thanks to the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, we have more accessible buildings, better job opportunities, and more inclusive schools. It is a law that keeps making life better for everyone.
Fundamentally, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is all about ensuring that people with disabilities are not left behind, that they have the same opportunities as everyone else. It is about removing barriers and opening doors.
With that said, let us remember and celebrate this important step in our journey toward a more inclusive and fair society, where everyone, no matter their abilities, can pursue their dreams and live life to the fullest. Together, we can ensure that every individual has the chance to shine and contribute their unique talents to our society.
Thank you and have a wonderful day!
Closing Remarks by Susan Satur, Secretary, CNMI Statewide Independent Living Council
Susan Satur, Secretary, CNMI Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC)In closing, we would like to take this opportunity to…
Thank our Governor and Lieutenant Governor for all the continual support provided to the disability community.
Thank you to the CNMI community for becoming more involved and supportive of hiring people with disabilities.
Thank you to all the Disability Network Partners! Always appreciate this amazing team.
Lastly, please come to the ribbon cutting ceremony for the newly renovated disability training and resource center next Friday, October 6th at 10:00.
Alyssa Babauta, far left, starts off in the reading of the Proclamation for 2023 NDEAM
“Advancing Access and Equity: Then, Now and Next” is this year’s theme for our National Disability Employment Awareness Month of October. This year’s theme was chosen to celebrate the passage of the Rehabilitation Act a half-century ago and its importance in prohibiting discrimination based on disability in employment by federal agencies, federal contractors and recipients of federal funds, and in the delivery of federally-funded programs and activities. We will use this theme to remind ourselves of the valued contributions people with disabilities make in our Nation’s workplaces and to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, a major milestone in our Nation’s ongoing quest for access and equity for all Americans.
Glory Legaspi, second from left, participates in the reading of the Proclamation for 2023 NDEAM.
Workplaces welcoming of the talents of all people, including people with disabilities, are a critical part of our efforts to build an inclusive community and strong economy. In this spirit, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) is recognizing National Disability Employment Awareness Month this October to raise awareness about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of people with disabilities. Activities during this month will reinforce the value and talent people with disabilities add to our workplaces and communities and affirm the CNMI’s commitment to an inclusive community.
Nicolas Torres, Chairperson of the CNMI Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC), joins his peers in reading the 2023 Proclamation declaring October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM).
Along with the rest of the United States, we will continue to advance access, equity and full inclusion of our people with disabilities by supporting the activities of the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation under the Office of the Governor in partnership with the State Rehabilitation Council, Statewide Independent Living Council, and all other stakeholders.
IF in fact one could actually die of a broken heart (figuratively speaking), I don’t think I would have made it past the Summer of 1990 — teenage sweetheart problems at the end of my Junior and beginning of my Senior years in high school. Of course, my heart was much stronger then, younger and without the brittle scars from decades hence. I imagine the survival rate for wounded hearts north of 50 years old are exponentially less when in the throes of a cardiac event, a fancy way of saying, “matters of a broken heart.” I have heard it said that a heart attack feels like an elephant sitting on your chest so heavy such that all you want to do is die. I wouldn’t know what an elephant on your chest feels like. I haven’t had a heart attack… yet…but I do know what it feels like to want to die sometimes. Sadly, my heart has been under attack more often than I’d like to admit — the price some of us pay for giving it away too easily. I’d say that feels more like a bottomless vortex in the pit of your stomach sucking the air and everything about you inward like you might implode into yourself. In a downward spiral, it’s all you can do to keep your head up enough to catch air (thinner with every new labored breath).
And no! This is not a cry for help — just an observation and a precautionary tale from an old man with his share of downs picking up pieces of what once was a vibrant heart runneth over with childlike innocence and love. Neither goodness nor mercy followed in all the days of my life. Perhaps karma plays a role or maybe some of us are just unlucky with whom we choose to have hold our hearts. Sometimes even the gentlest-looking hands turn out to be cold, hard stone cloaked in a thin layer of silk.
For many of us who spent any of our formative years living in Chuuk (at least in the 70’s and 80’s), the idea of going all in for love was instilled early with a draconian sense of all or nothing. That coupled with a skewed sense of what it means to be a man and the importance of respect proved to be a dangerous combination. You would be hard-pressed to find anyone, at least among my peers from Chuuk, who weren’t directly affected by someone killing themselves “for love” (or rather for no love I suppose). At a relatively young age, I saw my share of guys having the noose cut from their throats as final proof of “how much they loved her.” I was nearby also when they found the unrecognizable remains of a young lady who didn’t want to leave any doubt about her love for a boy who didn’t reciprocate her feelings.
Saying we glorified suicide for love could be an understatement; in fact, we sing about it. The lyrics of a favorite song among us reads as follows:
“Neneto nemin kopwe kuna ukukun me aparen tongom ei iei epwene solani manawei on efoch senin Okinawa… kone ameiseikok ne un coffee o pwan emeninmen ne fetan lukun peiasei.”
[Translation: “Look over here girl, so you can see the level and measure of my love for you which is about to steal my life with a rope from Okinawa…enjoy yourself drinking your coffee, smiling and walking around my grave.”]
We have other songs with similar messages — no doubt grim and misguided, but it is in fact the reality of how many of us were influenced and are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice as proof of so-called love. One so-called “love expert” from the internet points out, “Love may be the first thing that a person considers when entering a relationship, but it is also the number one reason why one commits suicide.” She goes on to say, "The number one reason for suicide is love. The number two reason for suicide is no love." (M. Dionisio). I call bologna, but will leave this here as food for thought.
I don’t know what, if any, empirical studies exist about the correlation between suicide and mental illness, but it may be fair to say that at any time a person considers ending her life (for anything), that in and of itself is a form of mental illness, at least a mental breakdown of some sort. For many, the struggle with mental illness — sometimes manifesting as anxiety, depressive or other psychotic disorders often accompanied by suicidal ideation — is and always will be internal. External triggers and such only exasperate symptoms which if dealt with appropriately can be laid to rest (no pun intended).
From a work standpoint, mental health issues can be extremely challenging and some of the most difficult to accommodate both for yourself and for others who may be decompensating. It becomes increasingly difficult when in a position authority you have to balance personal struggles with the needs of others around you or with legal mandates defining your responsibilities to the people you serve and your community at large.
Presently, the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation under the Office of the Governor offers eligible people with disabilities services to assist with their employment goals and with independent living. Of this year’s 181 clients for OVR, 21% are eligible due to a primary disability of, “Other Mental Impairments” and “Psychosocial Impairments” — disability causes include anxiety disorders, depressive and other mood disorders, mental illness (not listed elsewhere) and schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.
We are often asked to offer trainings on so-called “disability etiquette” and other “best practices” for working with people who have disabilities and there certainly is a plethora of formalized trainings to that end; however, every person is unique and subsequently the needs are very individualized. Beyond that each person is entitled to their own choices and we, subsequently, are required to support consumer choice — we don’t get to dictate what a person may or may not do.
Of course, personal choice comes with either reward or consequence. Each of us can reap in the rewards of good choices or suffer the consequences of bad ones and, if there is any justice in this world, you and you alone would suffer any consequences of your own choices. Unfortunately, many of us know all too well the lingering consequences for those of us who remain after a person we know takes his own life.
That’s a long, heavy way to arrive at this single point: “Even the strongest hands can lose their grip, the greatest of minds can become cloudy, and the biggest hearts can break. So, be kind, just always be kind” (Unknown). Most of all, please be extra gentle when handling fragile and tattered hearts north of fifty.
For more on vocational rehabilitation services, please contact us at (670) 322-6537/8 or via the internet at www.ovrgov.net/.
Through its Work Based Learning Experience Program, Train Smart wants local companies to take a chance on students with disabilities so they can contribute to society.
“My specialty is working with adults with disabilities. I used to be the transition coordinator for special education and it’s sad that teachers and parents try so hard to educate and train these students and yet come graduation there’s not much for them to do and so they stay home and regress,” said Train Smart founder Josephine Mesta.
She said she’s always been an advocate for people with disabilities, especially students when she worked for the Public School System.
“So when I decided to retire, I made it one of my priorities, training individuals in general who need a little boost to get their feet in the door.”
Mesta served as guest speaker during the Saipan Chamber of Commerce monthly meeting last June 3 at Kensington Hotel.
Train Smart founder Josephine Mesta was one of the guest speakers of the Saipan Chamber of Commerce during its monthly meeting last June 4 at the Kensington Hotel. (Mark Rabago)
“What I need from the Chamber is for companies to open their doors so I can show students the different jobs they may be able to strive for after graduation, by visiting their place of employment and having our students experience what it takes to work. So far, I have five [companies] who have agreed to provide the opportunities for these youths,” she said.
An ordinary high school student may already have a hard time getting work after they graduate, what more for students with disabilities, according to Mesta.
“It’s much more for students who have challenges or disabilities. It’s harder for them so we want to start them earlier and maybe we’ll have some win-win by the time they graduate high school.”
Mesta said actual workplace experience is invaluable in transitioning students with disabilities to become productive members of society by finding their way in the workplace.
“Workplace experiences provide students with disabilities the knowledge and skills that help them connect what they learn in school onto the worksite. It’s easy for us to say, ‘okay, this is how you can clear this table’ and we can talk about it at school, but until they see the table being cleared, then it registers and sticks. If you have experience with working with people with disabilities, that’s pretty much what we have to do,” she said.
And the carrot at the end of the stick for businesses is they can have the Work Investment Agency or Office of Vocational Rehabilitation pay the student with disabilities that they will welcome onboard to train.
She just wants an assurance from businesses though that they genuinely attempt to train students with disabilities and not just take advantage of the free ride afforded to them via WIA and OVR. Finding work for students with disabilities becomes doubly important if you think about the alternative.
“One of the things that I saw after I left PSS is that my students who we worked so hard to train and then deploy when their parents died, it’s hard on the siblings to take care of them.”
As a former Human Resources director at Hyatt Regency Saipan, Mesta said she personally knows of success stories of students with disabilities that thrived after being hired and one even worked for a company for 17 years.
“Guess what, they come to work every day and are never late. As a matter of fact, we have issues when they have to go on vacation as they don’t want to. So, we have to force the issue and tell them they have to go on vacation,” she said.
AS far as training programs go, the Work Experience Training and On-the-Job Training programs through the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation under the governor’s office are about as straightforward as they come. The only mystery for me is why more eligible persons with disabilities and employers aren’t knocking on OVR’s doors to avail themselves of the support which can translate to $10,444 in up to a year’s worth of paid labor.
More specifically given eligible, willing and agreeable participants (both trainee and employer), OVR will pay eligible individuals for Work Experience Training at the prevailing minimum wage rate (presently $7.25/hour) for up to 20 hours per week for anywhere from 3 to 6 months. And thereafter, if the employer is willing to employ them, OVR will reimburse the employer for On-the-Job Training at the same rate for up to 40 hours a week for 24 weeks. In total the employee and employer stand to get 48 weeks of paid labor in the hopes of permanent employment (emphasis on, “in the hopes” — the employer is not obligated to hire the person after the training period, but that is the goal).
Come to think of it, I probably shouldn’t be too surprised and it may not be such a mystery at all why we don’t see more interest in these programs. I’ll take a stab at a few possible reasons here for whatever it’s worth. It’s natural (maybe even advisable) when pointing a finger at an issue not to acknowledge the three other fingers pointing back at yourself and perhaps this will be a break from tradition, but given plenty of blame to go around I’ll be the first to admit that much of it falls directly on ourselves; in fact, let’s start there.
Government bureaucracy. Let’s start with government bureaucracy. Yeah…I said it and for emphasis I’m talking about myself and other bureaucrats who work in government with the general government systems in place. For a variety of reasons, we have not done a very good job with instilling confidence in the rest of those who look to the government for help. Put another way, government has a long-standing reputation of being slow, if not unresponsive, and inefficient (with time and resources). OVR is no exception, so we have our share of disgruntled clients. Wait times (whether you’re standing in lines, waiting for appointments, listening to elevator music on the phone or sitting at home twiddling thumbs) are simply too common. Most have come to expect that of government — sad, but true. That in and of itself can be a disincentive for people to seek us out.
I know better than to make promises, but I can say with some confidence that OVR can be the exception to the norm (if it is in fact a norm). We are poised with qualified personnel and a wealth of institutional (local and federal government) knowledge to rise above the fold. Our sitting Governor and Lt. Governor have expressed in no uncertain terms their expectations for us to ensure and/or restore “fiscal stability, more efficient government operations, and improvements in the delivery and responsiveness of public services.” Personally, I would love nothing more than to be a part of making that happen, not just for OVR but for our government in general. What we need is more consistent buy-in to the real intent of what we offer both from potential employers and from eligible individuals with disabilities who truly want to work.
Welfare culture. There is a pervasive sense of entitlement in our society due in large part to generational dependence on welfare programs — a welfare culture or welfare state of mind, if you will. And, our people with disabilities are not immune to it; in fact, all too many are brought up to think very little beyond government handouts as their primary, if not only, option. Given a choice to receive something for free or go to work and earn what you get most will choose the free option. This is especially true when it comes to receiving a Supplemental Security Income check versus getting a job and receiving a paycheck. The truth is that a monthly SSI check (at $914 for an eligible individual or $1,371 for an eligible individual with a spouse) is nearly the same amount (maybe even more depending on deductions) as a paycheck for someone working full-time at the minimum wage rate — it’s hard to blame anyone who chooses the SSI option. Still, the harder truth is that the prescribed “federal poverty level” is still higher than the SSI rate which (by the way) also comes with an asset limit. The point being that conceding to life on SSI is essentially a commitment to a life of poverty.
Of course, I am not without empathy. I understand the added challenges to competitive employment for people with disabilities and the fear of losing benefits through gainful employment; nonetheless, if we are ever going to break the cycles of dependence, employment must be part of our ongoing discussion and, essentially, OVR must provide needed supports to eligible individuals in order for them to obtain or retain gainful employment.
Disability stigma. Sadly, people with disabilities are most often viewed by what others perceive they cannot do more than what they can do — disability discrimination is a very real thing. Many employers (I dare say most employers) dismiss even the mere notion that a person with a disability especially those with visible, severe disabilities could offer any value in the workplace. The common assumption is that any person with a disability must be a basket case – of course, we all know what it means to assume.
Truth be told, attitudes are the real problem — both the attitudes of the job seekers and the job providers; in fact, the same is true regardless of whether or not disability is a factor. Breaking into an already meager job market requires genuine effort, a certain amount of luck and, to be clear, a sense of responsibility to be qualified for the work at hand. And yes, people with disabilities also have a responsibility to be qualified.
Northern Marianas College students Amelia Cabrera, left, and Shianne Santos.
Northern Marianas College students Amelia Cabrera and Shianne Santos with Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Case Services Manager Arlene Yamagata, right, and OVR Director Jim Rayphand.
Northern Marianas College students Amelia Cabrera and Shianne Santos, completed an eight-week internship with the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation of the Office of the Governor as part of the requirements for a bachelor’s degree in education with an emphasis in rehabilitation and human services. The students spoke briefly about their experiences at a professional development session on their last day.
Cabrera pointed out, “I really didn’t know anything about OVR before coming here, but our professor wanted us to step out of our comfort zone and I’m so glad I did. I feel like I have a much better understanding of services available to people with disabilities.”
Santos echoed a similar sentiment, “To be honest, of all the places I wanted to do my practicum, OVR was not one of them. But I’m grateful for the time and grace shown throughout this experience — I learned a lot.”
Both students had opportunities to learn more about the vocational rehabilitation system, its history, purpose and, more importantly, the direct services available to eligible clients with disabilities.
Case Services Manager Arlene Yamagata reiterated the importance and need to carefully consider the eligibility criteria. “First, of course, a physical or mental disability and that the disability presents a substantial impediment to employment. Then we make a determination of whether or not the person would benefit from VR services. Not all people with disabilities would benefit from VR services due to the severity of disability, but we do have members of our community that need extra support and services to realize their employment goals which is exactly OVR’s mission. We want to see everyone succeed in life and become productive and contributing members of our island community.”
Established in 1975, OVR is a state and federal partnership agency placed within the Office the Governor to increase employment and promote independence among eligible individuals with disabilities throughout the CNMI.
OVR Transition Specialist Sam Santos commented that more people should know about OVR and our efforts in “providing employment opportunities or carving out career pathways and filling in the employment gaps for people with disabilities with the unconditional belief that they can and should also work.”
OVR receives federal grant funds to provide vocational rehabilitation services to assist eligible individuals with disabilities to prepare for, secure, retain, advance in, or regain competitive integrated employment within their strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice.
Services include, but are not limited to: vocational rehabilitation counseling and guidance, information and referral, physical and mental diagnosis and restoration services, vocational and other training services, job search/placement assistance/job retention services, supported employment services, post-employment services, rehabilitation/assistive technology, and school-to-work transition services. Services are individualized and provided in the context of an approved Individualized Plan for Employment.
OVR consumers may be required to financially participate in their rehabilitation program.
Yamagata said: “We hope to see students like Amelia and Shianne consider careers in vocational rehabilitation or other disability-related professions after college.”
CNMI Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) is committed to ensuring that its website is accessible to people with disabilities. All the pages on our website will meet W3C WAI's Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0, Level AA conformance. Any issues should be sent to nmidir@ovrgov.net.
It is OVR's goal that the information on its website will be accessible to individuals with disabilities in compliance with the requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and that the statute's implementing regulations at 34 C.F.R. Part 104, and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and that statute's implementing regulations at 28 C.F.R. Part 35.
If you have difficulty accessing information on our website because of a disability, please contact us at nmidir@ovrgov.net and provide the URL (web address) of the material you tried to access, the problem you experienced, and your contact information. Be sure to include your name, email address, and phone number so that we may contact you to provide the information in another format.
Grievances can be filed with OVR by emailing nmidir@ovrgov.net.
