In 2002, U. S. Secretary of Labor established the Secretary of Labor's New Freedom Initiative Award. This award encourages the use of public-private partnerships to develop and implement strategies that enhance employment opportunities and career advancement for individuals with disabilities. Such strategies include increasing access to assistive technologies and utilizing innovative training, hiring and retention strategies.
The award is presented annually to one or more individuals, non-profit organizations, small businesses or corporations that have demonstrated exemplary and innovative efforts to further the employment objectives of President George W. Bush's New Freedom Initiative.
The Secretary’s New Freedom Initiative Awards have been presented annually since 2002. To read about past winners, please click on the year of the award, or on the individual names in the list below.
The Secretary of Labor’s SPIRIT Award is given to an individual with a disability or an organization demonstrating leadership and an unyielding commitment to achieving success. Award recipients are recognized for their qualities to inspire and enhance the ability of Americans with disabilities to enter and participate fully in the 21st century workforce.
