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Councilman David Oh Inspires Job-Seekers at The Academy
Councilman At-large, David Oh students at The Sierra Group Academy with a visit on Wednesday, March 21st. From humble beginnings in the Cobb Creek section of Philadelphia, Councilman Oh shared how he was inspired to start his own law practice and, ultimately, serve the people of Philadelphia. "It was tough, but my father instilled in me the values of persaverence and dedication," said Councilman Oh.
The first Asian-American elected to office in Philadelphia, Councilman Oh serves on many committees including the Disabled and Handicapped Committee. A friend of The Academy and job seekers with disabilities, Oh has employed Academy interns in his law-practice at Zarwin & Baum. "A lot of what a job is is to help success happen," says Oh. "You need to make yourself known and never give up."
Oh ran for City Council three times before ultimately being elected. "He told us, through his personal story, to keep trying and to make yourself known. [Councilman Oh] didn’t let his losses discourage him and we found this inspring," said Academy job-seeker and committee-woman, Jill Crowding.
A rehabilitation training program which helps adults with disabilities build the skills necessary to be competitive in today’s workplace, The Sierra Group Academy is a program of The Sierra Group Foundation. Through Assistive Technology and job preperation classses, The Academy is committed to driving up employment for adults with disabilities, including Veterans.
"Part of what makes a good worker is someone that has perspective," said Councilman Oh. "The Academy has taught me a lot about myself and helped me to gain perspective," said Academy job-seeker Serena Dodson. "Councilman Oh went to school for years to get a 4-year job. He is proof that no matter how long and hard you have to work, you can never give up."
