Celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month
Theme for 2024: “Access to Good Jobs For All”
Every October, the Transition Academy celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). We use this opportunity to spotlight the importance of finding meaningful employment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Equal opportunity for employment and a better quality of life are central to our mission: economic inclusion for youth with disabilities.
Congress designated this month to emphasize a powerful message: individuals with disabilities deserve the same rights and opportunities as everyone else. Inclusivity is a fundamental principle we must uphold as a society.
Imagine a world where everyone, regardless of ability, has access to good jobs. Picture a workplace where diversity is celebrated, where every team member brings their unique strengths to the table, and where inclusion is the norm, not the exception. That’s the vision we’re working towards.
This year’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month theme, “Access to Good Jobs For All,” highlights an issue many may not notice in their workplaces. At Transition Academy, we use this month to help raise awareness and educate about creating inclusive employment opportunities for individuals with IDD.
Key Benefits of Hiring People with Disabilities
Improved Profitability: Hiring people with disabilities can boost employee loyalty, enhance the company image, and reduce turnover, all contributing to better profitability.
Competitive Advantage: A diverse workforce attracts diverse customers, leading to increased customer loyalty and satisfaction. Additionally, hiring people with disabilities leads to innovation, productivity, and a strong work ethic.
Inclusive Work Culture: Prioritizing an inclusive workplace leads to a sense of belonging and respect among all employees.
Ability Awareness: Hiring people with disabilities raises awareness about different abilities, fostering a more understanding and accommodating work environment.
Secondary Benefits for People with Disabilities: Improved quality of life and income, enhanced self-confidence, expanded social network, and a sense of community.
Hiring those with IDD is particularly important as it not only brings these benefits to businesses but also promotes a diverse and inclusive workplace. People with IDD often demonstrate strong work ethic, reliability, and unique perspectives that can drive innovation. Providing employment opportunities for individuals with IDD boosts their independence, self-esteem, and helps them build meaningful connections within their communities.
Additionally, advancements in technology have significantly helped make the goal of employing those with IDD possible. It's important for employees to know they have the support and tools necessary to get the job done. Therefore, it’s the responsibility of the employer or manager to provide the resources and technology that will help people with disabilities succeed in the workplace. Team members will, in return, feel they are cared for, which leads to better productivity and attitudes.
There are many stereotypes and misconceptions that make companies hesitant to hire a person with IDD. As we think about this year’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month theme, “Access to Good Jobs For All,” it’s helpful to dispel myths.
Common Misconceptions
Job Performance: Some believe hiring someone with a disability leads to lower job performance and more absences. However, studies show this is not true, and that a person with disabilities will meet or exceed expectations in the workplace.
Capabilities: Some believe hiring a person with a disability means only giving them small, simple tasks. This is not true, and as long as managers give their employees the tools necessary, those with IDD have proven they are capable of more.
Expenses and Cost: Although it’s commonly believed making accommodations is expensive for a business, accommodations are proven to be inexpensive and worth it.
Our capstone event in the Spring is called the KC DiversAbility College and Career Fair, and the vendors there tell us why they value their diverse employees and why they come back every year to find more people to hire. You can hear from some of our vendors here in this recap video:
At the Transition Academy, we believe it’s our duty as citizens to practice inclusivity. Equal access to employment opportunities is the first step toward economic inclusion. Everyone should have the chance to prosper in our country. Join us this October in recognizing NDEAM. Let’s build a future where everyone, especially those with IDD, can experience the dignity and empowerment that come with meaningful employment.