VORA, APRIL 15, 2013    U.S. Ambassador to Albania, Alexander Arvizu went  to the “Mirësia” Wheelchair Factory in Vora to participate in a ceremony recognizing the Albanian Disability Rights Foundation’s (ADRF) and USAID’s work to support employment of people with disabilities, particularly Albanian youth. At the ceremony the Ambassador distributed certificates to young disabled persons who completed training in job coaching and counseling.

With USAID support, ADRF has helped more than 20 people with disabilities find employment, eight have entered internship programs, and 67 received vocational training. In addition, ADRF trained more than 50 companies and government institutions on how to modify their workplaces in order to accommodate disabled persons.

The right of people with disabilities to work on an equal basis with other members of society in an environment that is open and inclusive -- is a fundamental human right embraced and championed by the United States. Since 2010, USAID has supported the Albanian Disability Rights Foundation (ADRF) to help people with disabilities across Albania to find employment and to train companies and government institutions on how to modify their workplaces in order to accommodate disabled persons. Although progress has been made recently, with regards to legislation and increased awareness, more efforts are needed to address the lack of workforce infrastructure, education disparities, poor public support, and long-standing social stigmas. 

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