National Disability Employment Awareness Month
(Stuart, FL.) — October 30, 2024 - ARC of the Treasure Coast continues to celebrate in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy in recognizing National Disability Employment Awareness Month, an annual awareness campaign that takes place each October. The purpose of National Disability Employment Awareness Month is to educate about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America's workers with disabilities. This year's theme is "Access to Good Jobs for All."
The history of NDEAM traces back to 1945, when it started as a week and focused only on people with physical disabilities. Later, it expanded to a full month, and its name and scope evolved to acknowledge the importance of increasing the workforce inclusion of people with all nature of disabilities.
“Our communities and economy are strengthened by the inclusion of all people, including people with disabilities,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Disability Employment Policy Taryn M. Williams. “Their contributions have historically been vital to our nation’s success and are more important today than ever. We must build an accessible, equitable economy that fully includes the talent and drive of those with disabilities.”
Reflecting this year's theme, throughout the month, ARC of the Treasure Coast engaged in a variety of activities to educate its staff on disability employment issues and its commitment to an accessible and equitable work culture. These efforts included the recent Stuart Martin Chamber breakfast on October 29th, Project SEARCH Adult Model program and collaborations with community partners such as Cleveland Clinic/Martin Health, St. Lucie County, Department of Vocational Rehabilitation, Florida Family Care Council, Martin County School District.
"ARC of the Treasure Coast is proud to be a part of this year's National Disability Employment Awareness Month," said Keith Muniz, President and CEO of ARC of the Treasure Coast. "We want to spread the important message that we value all perspectives, including those of individuals with disabilities."
Employers and employees in all industries can learn more about how to participate in National Disability Employment Awareness Month and ways they can promote its messages—during October and throughout the year—by visiting dol.gov/NDEAM.
###
About ARC of the Treasure Coast: The ARC, (Advocates for the Rights of the Challenged) is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to empowering children and adults with I/DD through residential, vocational, educational, behavioral, and other healthcare services. ARC provides support, assistance, and training that enhances the abilities of children and adults with disabilities to thrive each day and achieve their fullest potential.