Celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) with PHASE-Industries

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October marks the annual celebration of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a nationwide campaign dedicated to raising awareness about disability employment issues and celebrating the many and varied contributions of America’s workers with disabilities. Since its establishment in 1945, NDEAM has grown in scope and significance, underscoring the importance of creating inclusive work environments where people of all abilities can thrive.

What is NDEAM?

NDEAM is an initiative led by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP). This month-long campaign serves as a reminder that individuals with disabilities bring valuable skills, talents, and perspectives to the workplace. The goal is to promote understanding and encourage employers to focus on inclusion, equity, and access in their workforce.

Each year, NDEAM has a unique theme that highlights current priorities in the disability employment arena. For 2024, the theme is “Access to Good Jobs for All.” It reflects the ongoing effort to ensure that everyone, regardless of disability, has the opportunity to participate fully in the workforce and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

How PHASE-Industries Supports NDEAM

At PHASE-Industries, we are committed to the principles of NDEAM all year round. Our organization’s mission centers on empowering individuals with disabilities and providing the support they need to achieve their employment and personal goals. Through our various programs and services, PHASE-Industries helps individuals build the skills and confidence needed to succeed in meaningful employment opportunities.

Here are just a few of the ways PHASE-Industries contributes to the spirit of NDEAM:

  1. Employment Training Programs
    PHASE-Industries offers hands-on job training through programs like Heritage Thrift, Heritage Barn Wood, and our various community-based employment opportunities. These programs provide individuals with disabilities the chance to develop their skills in real-world settings, preparing them for long-term employment in the community.
  2. Person-Centered Approach
    We believe that every individual has unique talents and abilities. By focusing on each person’s strengths, our team works to match individuals with the right employment opportunities. This personalized approach not only helps people find jobs but also enables them to thrive in roles where they feel valued and confident.
  3. Partnerships with Local Employers
    Building strong relationships with local businesses is a key part of our strategy. PHASE-Industries collaborates with employers across east central and southwestern Minnesota to create more inclusive workplaces. Through these partnerships, we advocate for inclusive hiring practices and offer support to businesses in providing accommodations and creating accessible work environments.

How You Can Get Involved

NDEAM is not just about raising awareness for one month out of the year—it’s about fostering a culture of inclusion and respect year-round. We encourage local businesses, community members, and employers to join us in celebrating NDEAM and taking action to create more opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Here are a few ways you can support NDEAM:

  • Hire inclusively: Consider how your organization can embrace inclusive hiring practices and make workplaces more accessible.
  • Raise awareness: Use your platform to share NDEAM’s message and educate others about the importance of disability employment.
  • Collaborate: Partner with organizations like PHASE-Industries to support training programs or offer job placements.

Together, we can make a difference and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to contribute their talents to the workforce.

At PHASE-Industries, we believe that work is more than just a job—it’s a path to independence, fulfillment, and community involvement. As we celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we remain dedicated to our mission of empowering individuals with disabilities through employment opportunities. Let’s work together to build a more inclusive future, where everyone’s contributions are valued, and no one is left behind.