Washington, D.C.—Melwood is honored to recognize U.S. Representative Glenn Ivey (MD-4) as an official AbilityOne Congressional Champion. As an AbilityOne Congressional Champion, Rep. Ivey proudly supports opportunities that enhance the economic and personal independence of people who are blind or who have other significant disabilities.
A ceremony for the honor was held in Rep. Ivey’s office, where he was presented a plaque by chief leaders from Melwood marking the occasion earlier today.
As a leading advocate, innovator, and expert in expanding opportunities for people with disabilities, Melwood partnered with Rep. Ivey as the local nonprofit agency supporting his path to this distinguished designation. Making a commitment to people with disabilities in his district and beyond, Rep. Ivey toured Melwood’s operations at the George Washington Carver Center last year, meeting several employees whose lives have been transformed by the AbilityOne program in the process.
“Becoming an AbilityOne Congressional Champion is an honor I do not take lightly,” Rep. Ivey said. “People with disabilities have so much talent to give. Organizations like Melwood use the AbilityOne Program to build a bridge that connects people with disabilities to our community, and in doing so break down barriers in a way that benefits all of us. I’m committed to supporting efforts that expand critical employment opportunities for people with disabilities in Maryland and beyond.”
“As the newest AbilityOne Congressional Champion, Rep. Ivey is setting an example for leaders here in the greater Washington region and beyond and demonstrating the power that comes with a truly inclusive workforce,” said Larysa Kautz, President & CEO of Melwood Inc. “We’re proud to have worked the Congressman to earn this well-deserved recognition.”
AbilityOne Congressional Champions are elected policymakers who have demonstrated support of the AbilityOne Program and associated nonprofit agencies in their district or state through congressional actions.
Media Contact:
Jewelyn Cosgrove
Vice President, Government and Public Relations
[email protected]
About Melwood Inc.
Melwood Inc. is a leading innovator, educator, advocate, and expert in expanding opportunities for people with disabilities to work and thrive in the community, as well as a source of critical services for those looking to grow and learn from our best practices. Learn more at www.melwood.org.
