October is a month of extraordinary importance, as it signifies the observance of National Disability Employment Awareness Month or NDEAM. This crucial initiative aims to celebrate and acknowledge the invaluable contributions made by the vibrant workforce of disabled Americans. It also serves as a platform to promote the importance of inclusive employment practices.
The theme for this year, “Access to Good Jobs for All,” focuses on the crucial need for ensuring that workers with disabilities have continuous access to meaningful employment opportunities throughout the year. In the state of Ohio, the organization known as Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, or OOD, is leading the charge. They are putting forth immense efforts to highlight the numerous benefits of employing individuals with disabilities and facilitating vital employment connections.
The state’s Governor, Mike DeWine, reinforces this sentiment with an important message, “Ohio is the heart of opportunity and the heart of prosperity, and that includes individuals with disabilities. Every citizen of Ohio should have access to a good job and a solid path towards financial progress.”
The Governor also underscores the importance of National Disability Employment Awareness Month as a fundamental reminder of the diverse skills and contributions brought forward by people with disabilities to our society. He further urges more companies to participate in the upcoming hiring events and webinars planned by OOD. The purpose of these activities is to raise awareness and educate on ways they can contribute to creating opportunities, which in turn allows all Ohioans to reach their full potential.
The Director of OOD, Kevin L. Miller, emphasizes the agency’s unwavering dedication of carving out avenues for gainful employment for disabled Ohioans. “Our commitment extends well beyond the span of a single month. We are devoted to creating year-round lasting employment opportunities for Ohioans with disabilities, nurturing workplaces where everyone can thrive and contribute meaningfully,” he adds.
As part of the month-long celebrations, OOD plans to host numerous hiring events across Ohio. These platforms provide individuals with disabilities the unique opportunity to directly connect with prospective employers who aspire to build inclusive and diversified workforces. The main objective behind these events is to cultivate long-lasting relationships that result in long-term, fulfilling employment.
OOD also plans to offer a complimentary webinar for employers titled “Building an Inclusive Apprenticeship Program.” Scheduled for the 16th of October, it is formulated to provide detailed insights into the advantages of inclusive apprenticeships, discuss reasonable accommodations, and highlight resources supporting these initiatives. You can find more information about the webinar and how to join on OOD’s webinar webpage.
Together, OOD and Governor Mike DeWine are striving towards a vision of creating an inclusive workplace. They believe that everyone, irrespective of their abilities, should have the opportunity to accomplish their full potential and contribute to their society effectively. National Disability Employment Awareness Month highlights this impressive commitment towards inclusion, awareness, and diversity in the workplace. Their combined efforts showcase an unwavering dedication to creating pathways towards economic success for all Ohioans, thus building a more inclusive and prosperous future.
