Dupage Policy Journal

State Senator Seth Lewis (R-Bartlett) will co-host the first annual Disability Resource & Job Placement Expo in Carol Stream on September 18. The event aims to connect individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to employment opportunities and essential resources, following Lewis’ support of Illinois’ Dignity in Pay Act.

The Dignity in Pay Act, passed in November 2024, requires that by the end of 2029, Illinois employers pay workers with disabilities at least the state’s minimum wage. Lewis stated his commitment to ensuring successful implementation of the law through collaboration with both the IDD community and local businesses.

“I was inspired to host this event based on my vote on the Dignity of Pay Act and the pledge I made that day that I would do everything in my power to create opportunities and fair wages for the IDD community,” said Lewis. “We have five years to put the provisions of the Act in place, and this expo marks the beginning of my efforts to increase awareness, highlight opportunities, and make sure our employers know that there are members of the IDD community that are eager and willing to work, and that they can bring a new level of energy to the workplace.”

State Representatives Jennifer Sanalitro (R-Hanover Park) and Amy Grant (R-Wheaton) will join Lewis as co-hosts for the event.

“Our neighbors in the IDD community deserve to live with dignity and enjoy the highest possible quality of life, and this expo brings together a wide range of vital services and opportunities in one place, from job support to therapy to legal resources, all tailored to their unique needs. I encourage individuals with disabilities, caregivers, and families to take advantage of this free, comprehensive event.”

The expo is scheduled from 9:00 AM until noon at Carol Stream Park District’s Fountain View Recreation Center. More than 40 organizations plan to participate—including service agencies such as Aspire Chicago, Goodwill, Equip for Equality, DuPage County Health Department—and several agencies specializing in job placement assistance. Additional information about employment coaching, therapy services, legal help, transition programs for adults with disabilities, paratransit options, resume building workshops, technology training sessions for home or work use will be available onsite.

Workshops during the morning include presentations on transportation options for people with disabilities at 9:00 AM; state trainee programs at 10:00 AM; followed by computer technology resources at 11:00 AM.

“My staff is putting the finishing touches on what promises to be an amazing and impactful event,” added Lewis. “With the support of our valued community partners, we’re working to shine a light on available resources and improve the lives of a community that is too often overlooked and underserved.”

Lewis has represented Illinois’ 24th Senate District since his election in 2023 after succeeding Suzy Glowiak as senator. For more details about attending or participating in this free event focused on supporting individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities—or their families—contact Senator Lewis’ office at (630) 349-0645 or email Julie at jlmceinc@aol.com.