October marks National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time to recognize the contributions of workers with disabilities and to promote inclusive employment practices. NDEAM highlights the need to break down employment barriers for people with disabilities, fostering a workplace culture that values the talents and skills of all people.
The History of National Disability Employment Awareness Month
The origins of NDEAM date back to 1945, when Congress declared the first week of October as “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.” This initiative aimed to address the employment challenges faced by disabled veterans returning from World War II. The movement grew over the years, reflecting society’s evolving understanding of disability rights. In 1962, the word “physically” was removed from the observance’s title to include people with all types of disabilities.
By 1988, recognizing the broader challenges faced by people with disabilities in finding employment, Congress expanded the week-long event into a month-long observance, officially renaming it National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Today, NDEAM continues to emphasize the importance of ensuring equal opportunity and inclusion for people with disabilities in the workforce.
The Importance of Inclusion in the Workforce
Working is a profound way for people with disabilities to experience full inclusion in their communities. It comes with many of the rewards we all desire – financial, social, and professional independence. But inclusion of people with disabilities in the workforce is not only a matter of social importance; it’s also a smart business strategy. Studies show that diverse teams, including employees with disabilities, enhance productivity, creativity, and problem-solving in the workplace.
Newk’s Deli in Gambrills, MD, is one employer partnering with The Arc’s Work Development Program. “Jamal opened the door for other people [with disabilities] to have chances. He showed us you can’t always judge a book by its cover and helped me look at people with disabilities through a different lense,” said Rodney Johnson, General Manager. “People assume that people with disabilities can’t do a job, so they don’t give them a chance. They deserve an opportunity.”
Despite the progress people with disabilities have made in the workforce, there are still significant barriers and challenges. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2023, the unemployment rate for people with disabilities was 7.2%, more than double the rate for people without disabilities. Moreover, people with disabilities who are employed are more likely to work in part-time roles or earn lower wages than their peers.
This gap highlights the importance of initiatives like NDEAM, which seeks to break down barriers and create pathways to meaningful employment for people with disabilities. Inclusive hiring practices not only benefit employees with disabilities but also enrich companies by fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Employment is not just about earning a paycheck; it’s about having a sense of purpose, contributing to society, personal fulfillment, and achieving independence. For people with disabilities, the opportunity to work can provide a critical pathway to self-sufficiency, confidence, and a sense of community.
Supporting People with Disabilities in the Workplace
The Arc’s robust workforce development program supports over 85 people in varying stages of employment throughout the community. From long-term employees with 15+ years with the same employer to new jobseekers who are just beginning their employment journey, The Arc’s workforce development program supports people in identifying their talents, growing their skills, and combining their interests and passions with the support they need to maintain long-term careers at workplaces that value them.
“People with disabilities bring so much to the workplace, including unique perspectives and skills, and their contributions drive innovation and success,” said Laura Degler, Assistant Director of Workforce Development.
Through partnerships with local businesses and agencies, The Arc’s workforce development programs provide job training and career coaching that empowers people with disabilities in the workplace. “Our team supports people in everything from identifying what type of work interests them, preparing their resumes and practicing interviewing, to on-the-job support after they’ve been hired,” said Laura.
When you express interest in starting your career or finding a new job, our Workforce Development team meets with you to discuss your goals and vision for the type of work you want to pursue and how it aligns with the life you want to lead. Together, we review job postings, update resumes, navigate the application process, and practice interview skills, which are all essential components of job and career development. But the support doesn’t stop there; our team provides ongoing coaching after you’re hired and even helps with managing transportation to get to and from work.
Moving Forward: The Future of Disability Employment
NDEAM serves as a reminder that while progress has been made, there is still much work to be done. As businesses continue to embrace diversity and implement inclusive hiring practices, it’s important to focus on long-term strategies that ensure people with disabilities are not only hired but are also provided with opportunities for growth and advancement within the workplace.
Programs like The Arc’s Workforce Development play a vital role in making this vision a reality. As we celebrate NDEAM this October, we work together to build a more inclusive workforce where people of all abilities can thrive.
If you or someone you know could benefit from The Arc’s Workforce Development Program, check out our admissions process and apply for services so we can get to know you.