U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao Calls for 2007
New Freedom Initiative Award Nominations

WASHINGTON — U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today called upon nonprofits, small businesses, corporations and individuals who have demonstrated exemplary and innovative efforts in advancing the employment and workplace environment of people with disabilities to submit their entries for the 2007 "Secretary of Labor's New Freedom Initiative Award."

"Improving employment opportunities for workers with disabilities must be a priority for all of us," said Secretary Chao. "The New Freedom Initiative Award celebrates successful programs and efforts that increase employment opportunities for disabled workers."

The award recognizes public-private partnerships and programs that have had a positive impact on the employment of people with disabilities through access to assistive technologies, the use of innovative training, and hiring and retention techniques. It also recognizes organizations, businesses or individuals who develop comprehensive strategies to enhance the ability of Americans with disabilities to enter and advance within the workforce of the 21st century.

Additional information on the award and specific nomination criteria are available in the Feb. 12, 2007 Federal Register or at www.dol.gov/odep. The information is also available by calling the department's Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP), Education and Outreach Section, at (202) 693-7880. The deadline for receipt of nominations is April 30, 2007.

President Bush introduced the New Freedom Initiative on Feb. 1, 2001. The initiative contains a comprehensive set of proposals designed to ensure that Americans with disabilities have the opportunity to learn and develop skills, engage in productive work, make choices about their daily lives, participate fully in their communities, and realize their full potential as citizens.

The Office of Disability Employment Policy has primary responsibility for implementing the employment-related aspects of the New Freedom Initiative.

Archived News Release — Caution: Information may be out of date.