MontanaWorks building volunteer council to assist entrepreneurs with disabilities

MontanaWorks, western Montana’s employment source for persons with disabilities, is seeking members for its Business Advisory Council. The purpose of this volunteer council will be to meet with MontanaWorks on a quarterly basis and lend your expertise to a nonprofit agency that assists persons with disabilities acquire rewarding careers of their choice.

In MontanaWorks’ first year of operation we have already helped over twelve people with disabilities obtain their own businesses! In addition to self-employment we have helped some of our customers get into wage paying employment of their choice. Some of the businesses and jobs we have setup already are: dog kennel, mobile bike repair, day care, artist, salesperson, custom saddle manufacturer, mobile kitchen, self-employed monthly newspaper producer, and nurse.

As an employment agency we are striving to be creative in applying the latest practices in vocational rehabilitation. We recognize the important contributions that employers can have in rounding out our services. We hope to tap into the resources and expertise that exists already in Missoula, and ask for about two hours of your time, once every three months.

These are some of the ways you can help out:

1. Your knowledge of what it feels like to be on the other side of the hiring desk

2. Knowledge of potential employers who could utilize our services

3. Your knowledge of the community and its resources

4. Hiring practices, tips and inside information

5. Your knowledge of marketing strategies in the business community that may be applicable to MontanaWorks

6. Your knowledge of self-employment, laws regulations and common sense business practices

7. Networking for MontanaWorks

These are some of the ways we can provide a service to you:
1. Familiarity with the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)

2. Assistance and expertise to you in the field of disability related issues including
disability etiquette in hiring and interaction

3. Networking with MontanaWorks, and other business leaders in the community

4. Familiarity with The Work Opportunity Tax credit, and other work incentive
programs

5. A fun, laid back atmosphere, a free meal, and information in marketing strategies
that may be applicable to your agency

6. An opportunity to give back to your community

Our first luncheon will be April 23 at 12:00, at The Montana Club located at 2620 Brooks.

Thanks, and hope to see you there!

Robert Snizek, Director MontanaWorks