Ammon News - AMMAN —The U.S. Embassy hosted Helena Berger, the executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), on Sept 1 – 3. Ms. Berger spoke to NGOs and public sector employees on the topics of “Building an Inclusive Educational System and Labor Market,” “Inter-governmental Cooperation in Providing Services to the Disabled” and “Grassroots Organizing and Awareness Building.” Ms. Berger also visited southern Jordan to share experiences on the best ways for disability center employees to serve people with disabilities. In addition, Ms. Berger gave a lecture at Mu’tah University about combating stigmas against people with disabilities. Ms. Berger’s talks examined disability rights, accessibility, transportation, development, housing, labor and education.

Ms. Berger’s visit was part of a U.S. effort to affirm its commitment to issues affecting people with disabilities, who deserve to be fully integrated into society, to have the respect of their fellow citizens, and to enjoy equal education and employment opportunities.

Ms. Berger joined the American Association of People with Disabilities in September 1997 as vice president and chief operating officer. AAPD is the largest disability rights organization in the U.S., promoting opportunity, economic power, independent living, and political participation for people with disabilities. AAPD pursues its mission through public advocacy and programs fostering leadership development, mentoring and career exploration, voting and civic participation, and member benefits. For more information about AAPD, please visit their website: http://www.aapd.com