Andy Jacobson (right) with father Lawerence. (Photo: Steve Bloom, Olympian Staff Photographer)

Not so long ago, a young person just out of college could usually get a start in the working world if willing to take anything, work hard, show up on time and be friendly. That first job can lay the foundation for building professional credibility and valuable networks. Bad economic times with high unemployment can make that first job illusive, especially if the applicant has disabilities.

Andy Jacobson ’12 has an Evergreen Bachelor degree with a focus on statistics and environmental science. He’s been energetically applying for jobs, is willing to take anything, is smart, trustworthy, dependable and has a great smile. So far, he has not had a single interview.

In true Greener style, Andy and his father, Lawrence, have upped the ante, hoping to give qualified job seekers with disabilities better access to state jobs. The result to-date is a bill, sponsored in both houses of the Washington State Legislature, called the “state employment disability parity act.”  Read the full article in The Olympian.