Public Forum Set for Rochester

For Immediate Release
September 23, 2013

Contact: Madeline Koch, 651-259-7236
madeline.koch@state.mn.us

Public Forum Set for Rochester
~Event to focus on southeastern Minnesota economy, employment opportunities for young adults with disabilities and students~

ST. PAUL – A public forum this week in Rochester will examine the economic landscape of southeastern Minnesota and explore emerging employment trends from the perspective of individuals with disabilities. The forum will pay particularly close attention to the employment opportunities and challenges for students and young adults with disabilities.

The forum will run from 1 to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 25, at the Rochester Art Center, 40 Civic Center Drive SE. The agenda includes:

• An overview of Rochester’s current and future economic environment, including a discussion of the Mayo Clinic expansion plans and the latest labor market information.
• A panel discussion featuring Vocational Rehabilitation Services transition specialists who work with high school students and young adults.
• A panel discussion featuring students and young adults from the Rochester area regarding employment-related services, opportunities and challenges.

There will also be periods set aside during the afternoon for public comment on employment, transportation, housing, choice and independent living for individuals with disabilities.

The joint public forum is sponsored by the State Rehabilitation Council-General; Rochester Vocational Rehabilitation Services office; Southeast Minnesota Center for Independent Living; and Statewide Independent Living Council.

DEED is the state’s principal economic development agency, promoting business recruitment, expansion and retention, workforce development, international trade and community development. For more details about the agency and our services, visit us at www.PositivelyMinnesota.com. Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/PositivelyMN.

Upon request, the information in this news release can be made available in alternative
formats for people with disabilities by contacting the DEED Communications Office at 651-259-7161

Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development
Communications Office
Phone 651-398-9459 or 1-800-657-3858 ∙ TTY 1-800-657-3973
www.PositivelyMinnesota.com
An equal opportunity employer and service provider.