From the Kansas Commission on Disability Concerns, July 01, 2008
Kansas Commission on Disability Concerns (KCDC) is accepting applications for consideration for appointment to the commission. We are seeking people who represent education (K-12 or higher education), labor, industry or business, community-based organizations serving people with disabilities and research programs on rehabilitation or disability.
Five people will be appointed to the commission by Secretary David Kerr this year. At least 51 percent of our commissioners must have a disability. Of these appointees, at least two must be people with disabilities.
We are also required to have geographic representation. We need representation from areas around Wamego/Manhattan, Americus/Emporia, El Dorado/Wichita and southeastern and southwestern Kansas.
KCDC advises the Governor, legislature and state agencies on changes that need to be made to laws, regulations and programs so that people with disabilities can participate equally in Kansas society. Our vision is that all people with disabilities are entitled to be equal citizens and equal partners in Kansas society. Our mission is to act as a catalyst for change in government for all people with disabilities. We value partnerships, freedom of choice, advocacy, respect and act so that we do no harm.
Our main focus of work is on improving employment opportunities for people with disabilities, but we also work on improving emergency preparedness for people with disabilities. Commissioners advise the staff on issues of concern in their areas of the state and with their constituency, recommend legislative issues and provide guidance to the staff. Commissioners are also reimbursed for the travel expenses. Auxiliary aides and services are provided for those commissioners requesting them. All meetings are open to the public and physically accessible.
If you are interested in applying, please complete the application and mail it to Martha Gabehart, KCDC, 1000 SW Jackson, Suite 100, Topeka Kansas 66612. You may fax it to Martha at 785-296-6809. Our mission, vision and goals are available for review.
The deadline for commissioner applications to be received in the Kansas Commission on Disability Concerns (KCDC) office is July 18, 2008.
If you have questions, please contact Martha Gabehart at mgabehart@kcdcinfo.com.