Lonnie Pitt, Regional Manager for Region 2 and the IDVR liaison with the community rehabilitation programs (CRP's), was awarded the Pat Young Award by Russ Doumas, President of ACCSES-IDAHO, the association of non-profit CRPs in Idaho. The award was presented during an ACCSES-IDAHO meeting on February 16, 2010. Pat Young was a former State Adminstrator for IDVR who was instrumental in working with the CRPs to acquire resources for employment services to people with disabilities in Idaho. ACCSES-IDAHO gives the annual award to an individual who has promoted services to and advocated for persons with disabilities.

Previous Pat Young Award recipients include John Kemp, CEO ACCSES; Dr. Michael Graham, Administrator IDVR; Jan Cox, Idaho Division of Administration.

USE LAW AND HISTORY

In 1973, Idaho's legislature enacted Idaho's State Use Law to encourage state agencies and departments to purchase goods and services from the state's Community Rehabilitation Programs.  State law permits the purchase of goods and services from these programs in any amount and without bid. This law applies to every state agency and department, and every city, county and political subdivision in Idaho.

Individuals with disabilities currently provide approximately $300,000 annually in products and services to the State. 

In his presentation, Cox said "We are proud today to recognize a department that has made measurable, positive impact on the lives of Idahoans with disabilities during its normal course of business. The Idaho Transportation Department has long been a supporter of the Use Law and people with disabilities by purchasing items manufactured by and services provided by Idahoans with disabilities."   

Examples include wooden stakes and lath for survey crews, soil sample bags, and safety flags, pallets, plaques, and janitorial contracts. During calendar year 2002, the Idaho Transportation Department procured in excess of $55,000 in goods and services from these facilities. These purchasing activities created employment opportunities for 75 Idahoans.

Cox further stated, "The Idaho Association of Community Rehabilitation Programs recognizes the Idaho Transportation Department for Outstanding Support of Idaho's State Use Law, thereby furthering the advancement of Idahoans with disabilities."

ACCSES-IDAHO AND MEMBERSHIP

ACCSES-IDAHO is the non-profit association consisting of twelve entities located throughout the state, dedicated to providing best-value purchases for the State of Idaho. Purchasing from these programs provides a way to provide training and employment to individuals who have disabilities or who are disadvantaged, thereby enabling each person to attain their highest level of economic independence.  Individuals who receive vocational training coupled with paid employment gain the opportunity to become tax paying citizens while reducing the need for public assistance.