Another Reason to Celebrate in October: National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Did you know October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month in the United States?  National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) honors the many contributions that people with disabilities provide to individual workplaces and the overall economy. 

This yearly event began in 1945 as a weeklong national observance of the contributions of people with physical disabilities. Then in 1988, Congress shifted the celebration from one week to the whole month of October, thus creating this annual recognition of the positive impact of people with disabilities in the American workforce. In 2001, the Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) was created and entrusted to administer NDEAM, including the selection and promotion of its annual theme.

This October 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month.  Additionally, America’s 250th anniversary is approaching in 2026. For this reason, this year’s NDEAM theme acknowledges both celebrations: “Celebrating Value and Talent." Not only are we celebrating 80 years of NDEAM and America's 250th Anniversary, but also the value and talent American workers with disabilities add to our workplaces and economy.

What is the Connection Between Community Living and Employment?

For us at the Community Living Education Project, NDEAM is also a time to pause and reflect on employment as an important part of community living. Jobs not only offer greater financial stability, but also a sense of purpose and civic engagement. Many people, regardless of disability, find deep satisfaction and purpose through their jobs. 

How Can My Company or Office Support or Participate in NDEAM?

• For those looking to acknowledge NDEAM, it might look as simple as hanging a poster up. The Campaign for Disability Employment’s “Working Works” Poster Series to emphasize the value of work and important roles that individuals, employers and healthcare professionals play in helping people stay at or return to work following injury or illness.
   
• Another good way to participate in NDEAM is to review your company's policies and discuss ways to be more inclusive in your workplace. Is disability awareness and accommodation covered in your new employee onboarding process? Do supervisors understand their role in fostering a disability-friendly workplace culture?
   
• You might consider planning a series of monthly "lunch and learn" events for employees to come and learn about a range of disability-related subjects. Topics could be "Creating Accessible PDF Documents" or "Disability Etiquette." You also could form an office book group that discusses disability-related books together. 
   
• Feature NDEAM in your office newsletter, magazine, and/or social media. Highlight ways you are creating an inclusive work environment.
   
• Solicit ideas from colleagues! From volunteer opportunities to hosting job fairs, they may have meaningful ways to recognize the month.