Understanding National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Progressive Lifestyles
Aug 21
2 min read

Each October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) highlights employer efforts and successes in integrating people with disabilities — including those with intellectual or developmental disabilities — into the workforce. NDEAM began in 1945 as “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week,” then evolved into a full month-long observance that includes all groups with disabilities.

Administered by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP), its purpose is to promote inclusive practices and celebrate the achievements of workers with disabilities. In 2025, the theme is “Celebrating Value and Talent.”

Spotlight: Adults With Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities

Despite their many valuable qualities, adults with IDDs often face steep employment barriers. As of 2024, up to 85% of adults with IDDs were unemployed. This imbalance underscores a critical need for greater diversity in the workforce. When employers adapt tasks and environments, individuals with IDDs demonstrate remarkable contributions, such as increased retention and higher morale for the entire workforce.

4 Practical Ways to Observe NDEAM

Here are some ways to advocate for including special needs adults in the workforce.

1. Educate and Advocate

Host training sessions to address misconceptions, highlight workforce benefits, and share best practices in disability inclusion, such as low-cost accommodations.
Distribute official NDEAM posters and toolkits from ODEP and local disability advocacy organizations.

2. Share Real Stories

Elevate employment success stories of adults with IDDs.
Encourage individuals with IDDs and their employers to tell their stories on social media using hashtags like #NDEAM.

3. Build Partnerships

Collaborate with local chapters of The Arc or organizations like the Campaign for Disability Employment. These groups offer resources such as PSA videos, downloadable posters, and toolkits.
Launch or expand inclusive employment pathways to creating meaningful jobs for special needs adults.

4. Don’t Stop in October

Keep up your advocacy for disability employment year-round by sustaining inclusive hiring, retention strategies, mentorship opportunities, and continuous disability education.

By observing NDEAM, communities and employers affirm that everyone deserves access to meaningful and fulfilling work — today and every day.

Support an Inclusive Workforce With Progressive Lifestyles

Progressive Lifestyles, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation based in Waterford, Michigan, and we have been in operation since 1983. Our mission is to provide supportive and caring residential opportunities for individuals with IDDs throughout Oakland County.

We support small, licensed adult foster care homes and private residences with community living supports, home help services, and private-duty nurses.

A primary focus of our organization is to interact with the individuals we support through the “Culture of Gentleness” model. We seek to create a positive environment to help them feel safe and valued by maximizing praise, limiting demands, maintaining consistent structure, and reducing stress during transitions. Contact us to learn more, and consider donating today!