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The Oregon Business Leadership Network (OBLN)
provides Oregon businesses with networking opportunities, education, and
resources to effectively increase understanding and awareness of
disability issues in the workplace.
The OBLN provides workshops, trainings, tools
and resources to make it easier for employers to support current
employees with disabilities as well as those who become diagnosed with a
disability during their working years. The OBLN can also help you
recruit qualified candidates with disabilities and provide a comfortable
and supportive workplace for everyone.
Frequently
Asked
Questions (FAQ)
What is a BLN?
Is there a local BLN near me? Who do I contact for more
information?
How do I join OBLN and how much does it cost?
Is BLN part of the U.S. government?
How long has BLN been around?
What are the types of organizations involved with OBLN?
How can disability employment issues affect my
company's bottom line?
What is a BLN?
A Business Leadership Network (BLN) is a national business-led
initiative that promotes best practices to enhance employment
opportunities to candidates and provide exceptional service to customers
with disabilities.
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Is there a local BLN near me? Who do I contact for
more information?
YES! It's called the Oregon Business Leadership Network (OBLN). Contact
Lucy Baker at 503-281-1424.
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How do I join OBLN and how much does it cost?
There is no cost to become affiliated with the OBLN. Sign-up online or
contact Lucy Baker at 503-281-1424 to receive more information or become
affiliated.
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Is BLN part of the U.S. government?
No, BLN’s are not part
of the federal government though they got their start there in the
Department of Labor and later moved to the US Chamber of Commerce.
Currently, BLN’s in the states exist in a variety of organizational
types. Some, like New Jersey’s BLN, are part of their state Chamber of
Commerce. Kentucky’s BLN is based in a University. Others, like
Florida’s extensive network of BLN’s, meet informally in their local
towns while others are individual non-profit corporations. The Oregon
Business Leadership Network is a statewide organization that is a
501(c)3 non-profit with a business led Board of Directors.
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How long has BLN been around?
The BLN was conceived in 1994 by a small group of employers who were
concerned that more than 70% of working-age people with disabilities
were unemployed. This model follows a primary business
principle--success breeds success. When an employer talks about the
benefits of hiring candidates with disabilities, other employers also
become eager to hire people with disabilities.
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What are the types of organizations involved with
OBLN?
Many prominent businesses and employer organizations are involved in
national BLN activities, and a multitude of
community agencies support the OBLN at the state and local level.
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How can disability employment issues affect my
company's bottom line?
A sound investment in human capital directly impacts corporate success.
In today's global economy, corporate success hinges on a diverse
workforce that includes workers who have disabilities. Workers with
disabilities often have learned to cope with physical and mental
challenges beyond the norm. Such workers are usually well-versed in
problem-solving skills, have a strong work ethic, represent a new market
for goods and services, and enrich a workplace that truly respects and
values differences.
See the OBLN Business Case.
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