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Fairmont celebrates talents of all

FAIRMONT — The city of Fairmont has proclaimed July as Disability Pride Month, and MRCI WorkSource is spotlighting the honor.

MRCI’s primary goal is to find employment for people with disabilities or disadvantages. It is based in Mankato, with locations in Fairmont, New Ulm, Chaska, Rosemount and Shakopee.

Although March is already recognized as disability awareness month, Moni Harper, branch manager of MRCI in Fairmont, says there is an important distinction between the two.

“Disability awareness month teaches audiences, and especially employers, that there is a talent pool that they’re unaware of and individuals who want to work,” she explained. “Pride is speaking to what their accomplishments are and celebrating different talents.”

MRCI is a large organization, serving 125 in Martin, Faribault and Watonwan counties. Everyone who comes to MRCI is referred by Human Services or vocational rehab services. MRCI works with individuals to find employment that will cater to their needs and skills.

“We’re giving opportunities to individuals who haven’t had the chance to work in the past,” Harper said. “There is a valuable workforce made up from these individuals and a lot of talent to choose from.”

Just in Fairmont, some of the places that employ people through MRCI are Walmart, Hy-Vee, Fareway, Holiday Inn, Avery Weigh-Tronix and Devinish Nutrition, just to name a few.

“We try to create a relationship with these business and make it a win-win partnership,” Harper explained.

While there are a number of individuals who work on site at MRCI, the goal it to get them out into the field. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 19 percent of the population has a disability, making them one of the largest and most diverse minorities, representing different abilities, races, ages and socio-economic backgrounds. However, people with disabilities still face barriers in employment, community activities and other steps of life.

“It’s important for everyone to know that a disability doesn’t define an individual,” Harper pointed out.

MRCI is working to ensure that clients find jobs at which they can utilize their talents and grow by working alongside non-disabled individuals. They strive to make sure their clients work for competitive wages so they too can make a living.

While this is the first year that July has been declared Pride Disability Month in Fairmont, as well as in Mankato, there are hopes that it will continue to be recognized every year, and celebrated every day.

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