ACDD joins National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Adams County Developmental Disabilities announced its participation in 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.

The history of National Disability Employment Awareness Month traces back to 1945, when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October each year “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.”

In 1962, the word “physically” was removed to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

“When I was growing up, many people doubted what I could do just because I was blind. But because I had people in my life who instilled in me an expectation of work and showed me opportunities to be successful, I completed college and became known for what I can do,” said Kathy Martinez, assistant secretary of labor for disability employment policy when announcing this year’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month theme, which is “Because We Are EQUAL to the Task.”

Reflecting this year’s theme, throughout the month, Adams County Developmental Disabilities is engaging in a variety of activities to educate employers and community members on disability employment issues and the role they play in fostering a disability – friendly work culture. These efforts include, handing out information and talking to employees at the Ritzville Health Office at 108 W. Main in Ritzville.

“Adams County Developmental Disabilities is proud to be a part of this year’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month,” said Cindy Doyle, Program Director. “We want to spread the important message that a strong workforce is one inclusive of the skills and talents of all individuals, including individuals with disabilities.”