Sen. Jim Holperin visited Michael Rohmeyer on the job at Dave’s County Market in Merrill last Wednesday as part of the Take Your Legislator to Work Campaign sponsored by the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities.
The campaign coordinates visits to workplaces between legislators and their constituents with disabilities who are working at community-based, competitive-wage jobs. During the visits, legislators experience first-hand the value of community-integrated employment for both people with disabilities and the state.
“I’m glad the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities conducts the Take to Your Legislator to Work Campaign,” said Sen. Holperin. “It’s good to see success stories of people with disabilities working in the community. Campaigns like this help keep legislators connected to the values important to the people of Wisconsin.”
When people with disabilities are employed, they contribute to Wisconsin’s economy and use fewer tax-funded public services. The campaign is being organized in conjunction with October’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
With the help of a job coach and funding from the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Michael Rohmeyer landed his job at Dave’s County Market over a year ago. Now Michael is a stocker at the store and he loves his job. He enjoys being part of a team and having the opportunity to help customers. Michael also feels good about having a job in the community and earning a regular paycheck.
“I get to help customers out and help anybody who needs it,” Michael said, adding that he enjoys working with the other employees as well. “The people I work with are like my second, third and fourth families.”