Celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month: Access to Jobs for All

October marks Disabilities Awareness Month, also known as National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). This observance serves as a reminder of the invaluable contributions that individuals with disabilities bring to the workforce, while also raising awareness of the ongoing challenges they face in gaining meaningful employment. NDEAM aims to not only celebrate these achievements but also advocate for more inclusive practices that enable all individuals, regardless of ability, to access and thrive in the job market. 

This year’s theme, “Access to Jobs for All,” emphasizes the importance of creating truly inclusive workplaces. It encourages employers, policymakers, and communities to take actionable steps toward removing barriers and providing equitable opportunities for people with disabilities. Pew research reports that “Those with a disability earned a median of $28,438 in 2021, compared with $40,948 among those without a disability, according to the Census Bureau”  By focusing on inclusivity in employment, we can foster a more diverse, innovative, and supportive workforce—one where everyone has the chance to contribute their talents and achieve professional success. 

How PRISM Provides Partnerships and Opportunities for Adults with Disabilities  

PRISM partners with a few different organizations in the Twin Cities that specialize in providing comfortable learning experiences and environments for adults with disabilities to lean into the confidence of independence through vocational, social, and life skill training. Organizations like Franklin Capstone and Transitions Plus are vital partnerships to PRISM and allow adults with disabilities to create meaningful space in their community.  

“Our partnership with PRISM allows our Transition Plus young adults the opportunity to learn new job skills by actively participating in the volunteer service program at PRISM. Every week our students enhance their connection to the community by giving their time and effort to empower people to build healthy and stable lives, ” says Kevin Kahle, volunteer liaison between Transitions Plus and PRISM.  

Transition Plus volunteers Selena, Zach, and Odin tell PRISM staff that they like volunteering at PRISM because it keeps them busy, builds skills, and the people are friendly and welcoming. Each with their own unique skills, they bring quite the team power together at PRISM.  

“I didn’t know I was good at stocking shelves and quality control until I started working at PRISM,” said Selena “The other volunteers in the back are very nice and fun to talk to.”  

Volunteering at PRISM provides individuals with disabilities meaningful opportunities to build and practice essential skills that can help them succeed in future work environments. Through hands-on experience, volunteers engage in tasks that enhance their abilities while contributing to a cause that supports the community. 

From left to right: Zach, Odin, Selena from Transitions Plus poses in the Marketplace Food Shelf where they come volunteer.

The Impact of Volunteering: Skill Building & Personal Growth 

One of the key personal impacts of volunteering is skill development. Volunteers take on tasks like monitoring supply levels, replenishing shelves, and providing customer service to participants visiting PRISM’s Marketplace food shelf. These activities reinforce existing skills and introduce new ones that can be transferred to other work opportunities, building confidence and competence. 

In addition to technical skills, volunteering at PRISM offers rich opportunities for social interaction. Working alongside a diverse team, individuals with disabilities have the chance to practice communication, build relationships, and develop teamwork skills in a supportive and inclusive environment. These interactions foster a sense of community and belonging, enhancing soft skills essential in any workplace. 

At PRISM, volunteers of all abilities are valued and supported, making it a great place to grow both personally and professionally. 

The Benefits of Employment for Individuals with Disabilities 

Skill Building: Employment offers hands-on experience that equips individuals with the practical skills needed for future situations. Tasks like customer service, monitoring supply levels, and replenishing shelves allow employees to develop confidence and competency that can easily transfer to outside-of-work settings. 

Relationship Building: Employment fosters connections within a supportive community, helping individuals build meaningful relationships that can lead to future opportunities. These experiences reinforce a sense of belonging and create a network of support that extends beyond work. 

Adaptability: Through employment, individuals with disabilities learn to navigate new situations and develop problem-solving skills. These experiences build resilience and adaptability, valuable traits that can be applied in both paid roles and as well as daily life situations. 

Access to Jobs for All: Why It Matters 

Ensuring that everyone, including individuals with disabilities, has access to jobs is crucial for building a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable workforce. By embracing inclusivity, employers not only create opportunities for a wider range of talents but also foster innovation through diverse perspectives. Access to jobs allows individuals with disabilities to contribute meaningfully to their communities, creating a sense of purpose and belonging that is fundamental to personal and professional growth. 

Moreover, when the workforce reflects the diversity of the community, it promotes a culture of acceptance and breaks down societal barriers. Employment access for all is not just about fairness; it’s about recognizing the unique value each person brings to the table and ensuring everyone has the chance to thrive. 

Conclusion 

Creating job access for all is vital to fostering an inclusive society, and organizations like PRISM play a significant role in providing opportunities that empower individuals with disabilities. By offering hands-on experiences through volunteering, PRISM helps bridge the gap between unemployment and meaningful work, ensuring everyone can participate in and contribute to the workforce. 

Support inclusivity by recognizing the importance of providing access to jobs for all. Join us in PRISM’s mission to create opportunities for everyone and consider how you can get involved—whether through volunteering, donating, or advocating for inclusive practices in your community. Together, we can make a difference.