Illinois Department of Human Services

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, which celebrates the many and varied contributions of America's workers with disabilities. In recognition of the important role people with disabilities play in a diverse and inclusive workforce, the theme for National Disability Employment Awareness Month 2024 is “Access to Good Jobs for All.” The IDHS Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) recognizes the need for employment models to help people with disabilities obtain competitive, integrated employment. For more information on the services DRS provides, visit: https://lnkd.in/eYHNm6Vc

IDHS offers a wide range of career opportunities. Learn more about job openings here: https://lnkd.in/dE-a5ES6

Today is an opportunity to acknowledge the rich histories and cultures of Indigenous communities and to renew our commitment to supporting their rights and fostering equitable relationships. Let us use this day to reflect and work toward meaningful actions that uphold justice and respect for all Indigenous peoples.

This week, IDHS Secretary Designate Dulce Maria Quintero joined the Farmworker and Landscaper Advocacy Project (FLAP) in celebrating the group’s 25 years of improving working conditions for low-wage workers in Illinois. Secretary Quintero spoke about the importance of protecting the unsung heroes in our communities, like their dad, who they watched cross the border every day between Sonora, Mexico, and Sacramento, California to work in watermelon and cauliflower fields. And they spoke to taking inspiration from labor movement giants, like Dolores Huerta and Cesar Chavez. Their experiences growing up, including joining rallies in California in support of the United Farmworkers Movement and learning from their U-C Davis Chicano professors, shaped their advocacy for others. "I have learned from giants. And I’ve realized that we can all be giants. Today, as the head of the Illinois Department of Human Services, my form of advocacy is finding out what people need and pointing them to those resources," said Secretary Quintero. Pictured with: Alexandra Sossa, FLAP Bilingual Chief Executive Officer

Today is World Mental Health Day, and IDHS recognizes the importance of mental health in every aspect of life. Whether you're at work, school, or home – taking care of your mental well-being is essential. ? At IDHS, we are committed to uplifting those in Illinois who seek support. For available resources, visit: https://lnkd.in/eAmSi2bX ? Your mental health matters, and you are never alone. Let's break the stigma and open up the conversation around mental health. Together, we can build a healthier Illinois. ? #WorldMentalHealthDay #988 #MentalHealth

Today marks National Coming Out Day. At IDHS, we honor the bravery and authenticity of LGBTQ+ people who come out and embrace their true selves. We are dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone. Let’s continue to support and uplift each other in the spirit of acceptance and equality. #NationalComingOutDay #LGBTQIA+ #Inclusion #Support

In this video message, IDHS Secretary Designate Dulce Maria Quintero, a proud member of and champion for the Latino/Latine/Latinx community in Illinois, reflects on their journey. Born in Mexico, they later followed their parents around the U.S. as they took various jobs as farmworkers and street vendors. Much of Quintero's background in advocacy and lived experience has informed their perspective and passion for social and human services. Their inspirations include cultural and movement giants such as Frida Kahlo, Cesar Chavez, and Dolores Huerta. Says Quintero, "We all have those magical gifts, we all bring our stories, no one can take that away from us. So share your story, share your journey, be a giant. Si se puede!" Watch here: https://lnkd.in/eKbtnDnK #HispanicHeritageMonth

988 is more than just a number – it’s a lifeline to compassionate, accessible care. Whether you're facing a mental health crisis or supporting someone who is, call 988 or visit 988lifeline.org/chat for live chat support. A trained crisis counselor will be there to listen, offer support, and connect you to the help you need.

For Hispanic Heritage Month, IDHS is celebrating the remarkable achievements of our Latino/Latine/Latinx community. This week we are highlighting activist and community organizer Maria Mangual. As an emerging community leader in the 1970s, she coordinated La Mujer Despierta, a local conference, to raise awareness around issues faced by Latinas in Illinois. Out of this conference, she started Mujeres Latinas en Acción, an organization initially focused on helping young girls and runaways in Chicago's Pilsen neighborhood, later serving women of all ages. Mangual dedicated her life to improving and uplifting the lives of Latinas, and her legacy lives on through the continued work of Mujeres Latinas en Acción. Image credit to womenslproject.com/ Read more about Maria Mangual: https://lnkd.in/e3nMwxNv #HispanicHeritageMonth

Siete de las diez comunidades más violentas de Illinois experimentaron reducciones de victimización por armas de fuego en 2023. únase a nosotros para promover futuros más brillantes y elegir comunidad en lugar del conflicto. Visita reimaginarpaz.com para participar.