A Week Without Driving
What would change in your life if driving wasn't an option?
A Week Without Driving is a growing movement led by a diverse coalition of local organizations, advocates, governmental agencies, and elected officials.
The campaign began in 2021, when Anna Zivarts at Disability Rights Washington launched the Week Without Driving so that policy makers, elected leaders and transportation professionals could begin to understand the barriers nondrivers experienced in accessing their communities. After two years, pedestrian advocacy organization America Walks joined the effort to support the national growth of Week Without Driving. In 2026, Week Without Driving continues to grow under the leadership of Non-drivers Alliance to elevate the voices of non-drivers and reimagine mobility across the country.
More than one third of people living in the United States are non-drivers.
A Word from John Lemus, AtWork!'s Advocacy Manager
“I remember my 16th birthday asking my parents who would be teaching me how to drive. The ablest response I got was that people with my disabilities didn’t drive and they weren’t going to teach me. I am now 41 years old and have never learned how to drive.
For the early years of my adult life, I was eligible for DDA services from age 17 to 20 I lived in adult family homes before transitioning into the community. I had caregiver assistance with shopping, meal prep and light house cleaning. When I lost eligibility for DDA services I had to learn pretty quickly how to accomplish these things on my own. I was a terrible cook I had to have given myself food poisoning a dozen times. At the time I was lucky to be living in the South Hill Regal neighborhood and everything I needed was within walking distance three grocery stores and a target and multiple restaurants. It was very much a walkable community.
I had been taking the city bus independently since age 17 and still use it today. When I got my first iPhone, I had access to GPS to help with way finding while riding the bus to new locations. As someone who is directionally impaired, this is a huge thing! I travel a lot for work and Apps like Transit and OneBusAway have allowed me to independently navigate big cities like Washington DC. These apps show me where the bus stop is, shows the bus in real-time traveling the route and notify me when the stop I need is coming up. I am so thankful that the 2 line is now active. AtWork! HQ is in Bellevue, so when I come in and time allows I can take the 1 line all the way to the international district and then catch the two line to the Overlake Village Station and as of the 10th of August 2026, Lime is now operating in Bellevue. This effectively turns a $100 Lyft ride from SeaTac to Bellevue into a total cost under 10 dollars with the light rail fare and the lime ride to the office!
In 2018 my transportation mode changed significantly when Lime came to Spokane. For the first time I was able to get around the community without having to take multiple buses or walk. In the winter of 2018, I bought my first electric scooter.
Owning my own made me so proud, I finally had an independent means of transportation. I could go where I wanted, when I wanted and cut down on time I was spending on the bus. I continue to use the bus and locally they allow scooters on the bus as long as they fold and are outside of the aisle. I can take the bus and then use my scooter for last mile transport.
In 2021 I bought a Tovala Smart oven. This oven is connected to the wireless network in our apartment and has a bar code reader that works with most of what my partner and I buy from Costco, as well as other built-in programmable recipes. For a while I was ordering pre-made meals from Tovala that worked with the bar code scanner. This is a game changer. All I have to do is scan a bar code and press start and the oven does all the rest.
When I look back on my years of DDA eligibility, I can’t help but think how much money the state could have saved if I had access to assistive technology a lot sooner.
Driving is something that a lot of people take for granted. Riding an e-scooter has made me a lot more attentive so I hope someday I can learn how to drive so that my independence can continue to increase,
A week without driving is a great way to bring awareness to challenges that non-drivers face every day. I would encourage you all to look at different modalities during this week; public transit, biking, and wheel-share programs. All of these are great ways to reduce your carbon footprint and are cost saving, which everyone is looking for these days!”
John continues to use his scooter and buses to get around the state. As AtWork!’s Advocacy Manager and Leadership Team Member, he is always on the go, participating in discussions where his voice is important and necessary.
Learn more about A Week Without Driving, and join us on October 1-8, 2026!
Check out our other blog posts:
Celebrating Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month:
Building a World of Inclusion
Every March, we join the national community to celebrate Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time dedicated to highlighting the talents, contributions, and potential of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). At AtWork!, this month is a powerful reminder of our mission to empower people with disabilities to be involved, contributing, and thriving members of their communities.
The Power of Inclusion
For over 60 years, AtWork! has pioneered the belief that people with disabilities belong in their home communities and have the capacity to work and contribute. While the world has made progress since we first began in 1962, a significant gap remains: according to the U.S. Department of Labor, only about 23% of working-age adults with disabilities are employed, compared to over 66% of those without disabilities.
We believe this gap is about access and opportunity, not ability. Employment is more than a paycheck; it is a pathway to purpose, confidence, and belonging. This is why we work tirelessly across King, Snohomish, Spokane, and Kittitas counties to “change the face of employment” one job match at a time.
Transforming Lives Through Service
Our approach is holistic, supporting individuals throughout their adult lives:
- School-to-Work (Transition): We partner with local school districts to help students move from high school into paid community jobs with the goal of “Jobs by June”.
- Employment Services: We use a customized employment model, matching the specific skills of a job seeker with the real needs of a business. This has led to incredible milestones, such as Blake celebrating 20 years at Starbucks and Richard reaching his 25th anniversary with our Businesses Powered by AtWork! team.
- Community Inclusion: We believe community connection is vital at every age, helping retired individuals or those seeking deeper social ties to volunteer, join clubs, and build lasting friendships.
"Nothing About Us Without Us"
Advocacy is the heartbeat of our organization. A major highlight of our recent work was the passage of the “Nothing About Us Without Us” bill (HB 1541) in 2024. This landmark legislation mandates that Washington state government agencies include people with disabilities in the decision-making processes that affect their lives.
This month, we celebrate the fact that inclusion means everyone.
Blake celebrating 20 years at Starbucks!
Richard reaching his 25th anniversary with our Businesses Powered by AtWork! team!
The passage of the “Nothing About Us Without Us” bill (HB 1541) in 2024!
How You Can Get Involved
- Hire with Purpose: If you are a business owner, consider creating a hiring initiative. Inclusive workplaces are more innovative and productive.
- Advocate: Sign up for Advocacy Alerts to stay informed on legislative issues that impact the disability community.
- Support the Mission: Join the Randall Club, our monthly giving community dedicated to making the dream of inclusion a reality.
Together, we are making the world a more inclusive place where every person is valued for their talent and human dignity.
June 2026
Employer of the Month: Transdev
Many members from the Transdev and AtWork! team came out to celebrate the Employer of the Month award.
Robert “Allen” Dill, Transdev’s Supervisor with Jason, on the left, and Kyle, on the right. Jason and Kyle are both supported by AtWork!.
Driving Opportunity Through Partnership
At AtWork!, we know that meaningful employment is built on strong partnerships. This month, we’re proud to recognize Transdev as our June Employer of the Month for their longstanding commitment to creating inclusive employment opportunities in Snohomish County.
Transdev, a transportation provider serving communities across North America, has been a trusted partner of AtWork! for years. At their Everett location, they currently employ five individuals supported by AtWork! while also serving as a valued Community-Based Assessment (CBA) site, providing individuals the opportunity to explore careers, build workplace skills, and gain real-world experience before pursuing competitive employment. Transdev also operates transportation services in partnership with Community Transit, serving Snohomish County through a long-standing local partnership.
What makes Transdev exceptional isn’t simply the number of people they’ve hired, it’s the culture they’ve created. Their team welcomes individuals with disabilities as valued employees, invests in their success, and demonstrates that inclusive hiring strengthens workplaces and communities alike.
No one understands that partnership better than AtWork! Employment Consultant Dan Galloway, who helped establish the relationship.
“Allen and Transdev have consistently demonstrated a commitment to inclusion, opportunity, and the success of our participants. In many ways, ‘Employer of the Month’ does not fully capture what Transdev has meant to AtWork! over the years. They have provided meaningful opportunities, outstanding support, and a welcoming environment for countless individuals. Their impact has been significant and long-lasting.”
Those words reflect the heart of this partnership. Through meaningful employment, individuals gain confidence, develop new skills, earn competitive wages, and become active contributors to their workplace and community. At the same time, Transdev has gained dedicated employees who bring reliability, commitment, and unique strengths to their team.
Partnerships like this remind us that inclusive employment isn’t simply about filling positions, it’s about recognizing talent, investing in people, and creating workplaces where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
Thank you, Transdev, for your continued partnership, your leadership, and your belief in the power of inclusive employment. Congratulations on being named AtWork!’s June Employer of the Month!
April 2026
Employer of the Month: Eastgate Safeway
AtWork! is proud to recognize Eastgate Safeway as our Employer of the Month! They are an outstanding partner in building inclusive employment and strengthening community.
Eastgate Safeway has gone above and beyond in its commitment to inclusive hiring, currently employing six individuals supported by AtWork!. More than just creating opportunities, the team at Safeway has fully embraced what it means to be an inclusive workplace. Individuals are not set apart, they are part of the team, working alongside coworkers across departments and contributing to the store’s daily success.
This partnership reflects what is possible when employers lead with openness and a belief in people’s potential. Safeway’s team has worked closely with AtWork! staff to ensure everyone is set up for success, fostering an environment where employees can grow in confidence, build skills, and develop meaningful workplace relationships.
The impact extends far beyond the workplace. For the individuals employed at Eastgate Safeway, this opportunity means increased independence, connection, and pride in their work. For Safeway, it means a stronger team, improved workplace culture, and dedicated employees who show up ready to contribute each day.
What makes this partnership especially meaningful is the sense of community it has created. Safeway leadership, AtWork! staff, and the individuals we serve have built a collaborative and supportive relationship rooted in mutual respect. It’s a partnership where everyone benefits and where inclusion is truly lived out, not just discussed.
We are incredibly grateful to the entire Eastgate Safeway team for their leadership and commitment to inclusive employment. Their partnership is a powerful example of how businesses can make a lasting impact in their communities.
Congratulations, Eastgate Safeway, and thank you for helping to create opportunities where everyone can succeed.
February 2026
Art Salvage Named AtWork!’s First Employer of the Month
AtWork! is proud to recognize Art Salvage as our very first Employer of the Month, honoring their commitment to inclusive employment and community connection in Spokane.
Art Salvage exemplifies what it means to build an inclusive workplace. In partnership with AtWork!, they employ one individual who contributes meaningfully to their daily operations, while also serving as a Community Inclusion site for two additional individuals. Through this partnership, participants gain opportunities to build skills, connect with others, and engage in purposeful, creative work.
What sets Art Salvage apart is their willingness to meet people where they are—offering flexibility, understanding, and a genuine sense of belonging. Their space is not just about salvaged materials; it’s about creating value, opportunity, and community.
The AtWork! Employer of the Month program recognizes businesses that demonstrate leadership in inclusive hiring and partnership. Art Salvage’s approach shows that inclusion doesn’t require perfection, just openness, collaboration, and care.
We are grateful for Art Salvage’s partnership and proud to celebrate the role they play in supporting individuals to thrive through employment and community engagement. Thank you for setting the standard for inclusive practices in Spokane and beyond.
At AtWork!, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to shine in the workplace. Thanks to rapid advancements in technology, doors are swinging wide open, breaking down barriers, sparking innovation, and creating exciting new pathways for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).
From cutting-edge tools that make day-to-day tasks more manageable to platforms that fuel independence, technology is becoming a powerful partner in building a workforce where inclusion isn’t the exception, it’s the standard.
Assistive Technology Opens the Door
Assistive technology (AT) is transforming how people with disabilities connect, communicate, and contribute in their roles.
- Screen readers and magnifiers allow employees with vision impairments to navigate computers, apps, and online systems with confidence.
- Speech-to-text software gives individuals with mobility or dexterity challenges the ability to write documents, send emails, and collaborate with speed and ease.
- Adaptive input devices, like ergonomic keyboards, specialized mice, or trackballs, help ensure that physical differences don’t limit productivity or creativity.
These tools don’t just help employees thrive; they help employers discover and leverage an incredible, often untapped, talent pool.
Remote Work Broadens Possibilities
The rise of remote and hybrid work has been a game-changer for accessibility. Working from home means fewer transportation barriers, flexible schedules, and the ability to create a personal workspace tailored to sensory or physical needs.
With video conferencing platforms that offer live captioning, instant messaging tools, and cloud-based project spaces, collaboration has never been more seamless or more inclusive.
Training & Upskilling for All
Learning new skills has never been more accessible. Online learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning and Coursera now provide interactive, accessible courses that include captions, visual aids, and multiple learning formats.
At AtWork!, we use technology to ensure both the people we serve and the employers we partner with have the skills, tools, and resources to grow together. Whether it’s workplace etiquette training or digital skills, we’re ensuring learning is always within reach.
Building Inclusive Workplaces with Tech
Beyond job performance, technology also helps create truly inclusive workplace cultures.
- Communication apps break down sensory and language barriers.
- Scheduling tools make it easier for managers to accommodate individual needs.
- Collaboration platforms ensure every voice is heard, no matter the location or format.
By weaving accessibility into daily operations, businesses send a clear message: You belong here.
The Future is Accessible
As technology evolves, so do the opportunities for people with disabilities to showcase their skills, creativity, and leadership. At AtWork!, we’re committed to staying at the forefront, exploring new innovations, testing new tools, and advocating for workplaces where accessibility is just a normal part of doing business.
When human potential meets innovative technology, the results are extraordinary: a stronger, more inclusive workforce that benefits everyone.
Empower our Mission.
Inspired by what you read or what you think the future holds? Help us empower more people with I/DD through technology.
Celebrating Dedication and Longevity at AtWork!
At AtWork!, we know that success is built on people. Their commitment, their compassion, and their consistency. This fall, we’re celebrating some truly remarkable milestones within our AtWork! community, honoring both our dedicated team members and the incredible individuals we serve.
20 Years of Financial Leadership
Our Chief Financial Officer, Bob Thompson, recently celebrated 20 years with AtWork!, a milestone that speaks volumes about his dedication to our mission. Over the past two decades, Bob has guided AtWork! through growth, change, and challenge, ensuring our financial sustainability and strengthening our capacity to serve communities across Washington. His steady leadership continues to help AtWork! thrive and expand opportunities for people with disabilities.
“AtWork! has been my second home for 20 years. It’s incredible to see how far we’ve come and how many lives have changed.” – Bob Thompson, AtWork! CFO
10 Years of Impact in Snohomish County
Congratulations to Dan Galloway, one of our talented Employment Consultants in Snohomish County, who just reached his 10-year anniversary! Dan’s passion for building relationships with employers and helping individuals find meaningful work has made a lasting difference in so many lives. His dedication embodies the AtWork! spirit of inclusion, empowerment, and opportunity.
Honoring 15 Years of Service and a Well-Earned Retirement
After 15 years of service, Steve Repanich has officially retired! Throughout his time at AtWork!, Steve played an integral role in supporting our mission and those we serve. His warmth, humor, and unwavering dedication will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire both colleagues and participants alike. We wish him all the best in his next chapter.
Celebrating Our Community’s Successes
Longevity isn’t just something we celebrate among our staff, it’s something we’re honored to witness every day in the lives of the people we serve.
Ricky recently celebrated 25 years at Costco, earning his silver badge, plaque, and the recognition of an entire team that values his hard work and consistency. His achievement is a testament to what long-term employment and inclusive workplaces can look like when given the right support and opportunity.
Meanwhile, Blake marked 20 years with Starbucks, where his enthusiasm, dedication, and friendly smile have become part of the store’s culture. His journey highlights the power of employment to build community, purpose, and pride.
A Shared Legacy of Commitment
Whether it’s 10, 15, 20, or 25 years, each of these milestones represents more than time, they represent trust, growth, and the shared belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive.
AtWork! is proud to celebrate these moments of longevity among our staff, our partners, and the incredible individuals we support. Together, we’re proving that inclusive employment creates not just jobs, but lifelong careers, community, and connection.
AtWork!’s impact continues to grow! This year alone, we’ve served 401 people, supported 46 new job starts, and maintained an impressive 62% employment rate among those we serve. These numbers represent more than outcomes; they represent lives transformed and communities strengthened through inclusion. Research consistently shows that employees with disabilities have twice the retention rate of their peers, demonstrating not only their dedication but also the lasting value of inclusive workplaces. Every milestone, from new hires to 25-year anniversaries, is proof that investing in people with disabilities is an investment in stability, loyalty, and long-term success.
Here’s to many more years of growth, inclusion, and impact — together.
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AtWork! believes that everyone deserves the chance to contribute, grow, and thrive. Every day, we partner with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to create meaningful employment opportunities and stronger, more inclusive communities. But we can’t do it alone.
Whether you have a few hours, a professional skill to share, or the ability to invest financially, your involvement makes a direct impact. Here are three powerful ways to join the movement:
1. Volunteer Your Time
Volunteers are the heartbeat of AtWork!. From helping with mailings to conducting mock interviews for our School-to-Work students, your time builds confidence and opens doors to employment. Opportunities include:
- Mock Interviews: Held multiple times per year, these sessions help students practice real-world job skills.
- Administrative Support: Help with mailers or event prep to keep our programs running smoothly.
- Special Projects: Lend your expertise in areas like marketing, event planning, or technology.
Ready to volunteer? Connect with us! info@atworkwa.org
2. Support Through Donations
Financial gifts—large or small—allow us to provide job training, placement services, and individualized support. Your donation keeps programs strong and ensures that people with disabilities can find and keep meaningful work.
- Make a one-time gift or Join the Randall Club by setting up a recurring donation.
- Consider a workplace giving program or employer match to multiply your impact.
3. Advocate for Inclusion
Your voice is powerful. Advocate for policies that expand employment opportunities for people with disabilities and support inclusive hiring practices in your workplace and community.
- Share AtWork!’s mission on social media.
- Attend local meetings or write to legislators about the importance of inclusive employment.
- Encourage your employer to partner with AtWork! to create more job opportunities.
Every Action Counts!
When you volunteer, donate, or advocate, you help break down barriers and create pathways to employment for people with disabilities. Together, we can build a community where everyone belongs and contributes.
Join the movement today. Because inclusion works when all of us are involved.
A Legacy of Progress and the Work Ahead
This July marks the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)—a landmark piece of civil rights legislation signed into law on July 26, 1990. At its core, the ADA affirms what we at AtWork! have always believed: people with disabilities have the right to live, work, and participate fully in their communities.
Before the ADA, countless Americans faced barriers that limited their access to education, employment, transportation, and public spaces—not because of their disability, but because of systems that weren’t built with inclusion in mind. The ADA helped change that. It outlawed discrimination, mandated accessibility, and set a new standard for equity across the nation.
Why the ADA Still Matters
While the ADA laid the foundation for inclusion, the journey is far from over. At AtWork!, we see firsthand how barriers still exist—especially in employment. Despite having the desire, talent, and determination to succeed, people with disabilities remain underemployed at twice the rate of their non-disabled peers.
That’s why the ADA is not just a historical milestone, it’s a call to action. It’s a reminder that access is a right, not a privilege, and that every employer, policymaker, and community member has a role to play in making our society truly inclusive.
Our Commitment
AtWork! was founded on the belief that employment is a pathway to independence, dignity, and connection. Through supported employment, transition services, and community inclusion, we work every day to break down barriers, shift perceptions, and open doors for people with disabilities to thrive.
The ADA helps make this possible—but it’s the people we serve, the employers who champion inclusive hiring, and the families who advocate for their loved ones who bring the spirit of the ADA to life.
What You Can Do
- Learn more about the ADA and the history of disability rights.
- Support inclusive employment by partnering with us or donating to our mission.
- Speak up when you see inaccessibility or injustice.
- Celebrate the progress we’ve made—and recommit to what still needs to be done.
Together, we honor the ADA not just with words, but with action.
Happy Anniversary, ADA. Here’s to building a more inclusive future for everyone.
Advocacy is at the heart of AtWork!'s Mission.
We believe that disability rights are human rights, and every individual deserves meaningful employment, community inclusion, and equal opportunities. On January 28th, we proudly joined forces with disability service providers, self-advocates, families, and allies in Olympia for Employment for All Day, or Advocacy Day—a powerful event where voices united to create meaningful change.
Put on by the Arc of Washington and the Community Employment Alliance, the day was filled with impactful and inspiring moments. It began with meetings with local Representatives and Senators to discuss critical issues affecting individuals with disabilities. We shared stories, advocated for inclusive policies, and highlighted the importance of community-based employment services.
In the afternoon, we gathered on the Capitol steps for an inspiring rally, standing alongside fellow advocates to amplify the message that individuals with disabilities are valuable members of our communities. The energy and passion of everyone in attendance underscored the importance of collective action. We had Representatives join us, sharing their reasons for supporting our cause and their constituents. Signs in the crowd read, “I work! I am a taxpayer!”, “Ask me what I buy with my paycheck”, “Employment for ALL”, and “Yes to Diversity and Inclusion”.
At AtWork!, we live by the principle of “Nothing About Us Without Us.” Advocacy isn’t something we do for the people we serve; it’s something we do alongside them. We are proud to have John Lemus, a fierce advocate and leader in the disability community, as our Advocacy Manager and a key member of our Senior Leadership. John’s lived experience and dedication inspire us every day, and we are so honored to have him on our team. He read the governor’s proclamation, designating this day as “Employment For All Day”.
Advocacy Day reminded us of the power of collaboration and the strength of shared voices. We left Olympia energized and inspired, ready to continue the work of championing disability rights and creating a more inclusive future.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and made this day unforgettable. Together, we are building a world where everyone belongs.
Learn More:
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Want to Get Involved? Here's How!
Leading with Inclusion: AtWork! Voices on National Disability Employment Awareness Month
National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), is the annual recognition of the positive impact of people with disabilities in the American workforce. This yearly event began in 1945 as a weeklong national observance of the contributions of people with physical disabilities. In 1988, Congress designated the commemoration as NDEAM, which then evolved to acknowledge the importance of increasing opportunities for people with disabilities, including those with mental health conditions and other nonobvious disabilities. In 2001, ODEP was created and entrusted to administer NDEAM, including the selection and promotion of its annual theme. Visit dol.gov to Learn More.
Each year, AtWork! gathers reflections from leadership during #NDEAM to reaffirm our commitment to the inclusion of people with disabilities in the workforce and community.
A message from our CEO,
Chris Jahrman
Each October, the nation recognizes National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) as a time to honor the many contributions of people with disabilities to our workforce and to reflect on the work that is still needed to build truly inclusive workplaces. NDEAM should be recognized for what it is – a call to action.
Despite decades of progress the employment gap between people with disabilities and those without remains significant. In 2024, less than 23% of people with disabilities were employed compared to 66% of those without disabilities. Thus, the call to action. From my last few years at the helm of AtWork!, a supported employment provider, I can tell you that these disparities are not from a lack of talent or motivation. I’m inspired every day by the work our organization witnesses involving people with disabilities. Instead, the disparity is largely rooted in ableism and longstanding barriers in our employment systems.
“That’s why this month is so powerful. NDEAM helps to bring these challenges into public conversation, to celebrate contributions, and shift perceptions. “
While progress has been made, I’m still surprised by the number of inaccessible online applications, unaccommodating interview processes, and environments that lack inclusion or even accessibility to people with disabilities. All are obstacles to secure employment, and there are more should they be hired. Often new employees with disabilities may face misconceptions, isolation, and limited opportunities for advancement. That’s why this month is so powerful. NDEAM helps to bring these challenges into public conversation, to celebrate contributions, and shift perceptions.
“There’s a growing body of evidence that inclusion isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s smart business.”
Join AtWork! and other employers this month in building greater awareness that people with disabilities have a rightful place in the workforce. There’s a growing body of evidence which concludes that inclusion is not just the right thing to do, but it’s also smart business strategy. Companies identified as leaders in disability employment saw on average 60% higher revenue and nearly twice the profit of their industry peers.
Your call to action?
- Create the time to reflect on what you can do to support hiring people with disabilities.
- Hold space to have conversations about inclusion in workplaces.
- Invite speakers to your worksite to discuss these issues.
- Review hiring practices and look at your internal processes for hiring through a lens of accessibility.
- Donate to organizations that are leading the efforts for a more inclusive workforce that includes people with disabilities.
- Reach out to AtWork! or other supported employment organizations to discuss ways you can personally be involved.
Simply put, lean into supporting disability rights to honor and protect the abilities and dignity of all.
Have a great October!
A message from our Advocacy Manager,
John Lemus
This year National Disability Employment Month (NDEAM) is in its 80th year. That’s a long time. During this time the concepts of supported employment has changed drastically. From the “try another way” model to the customized employment model. From Congregate sheltered workshops where individuals made less than the minimum wage to Community Employment, where sometimes individuals are out earning the people who support them.
What a shift in the landscape, all in the name of creating inclusion for people with disabilities in the workforce. The power of developmental diversity at work is crucial to the success of not only people with disabilities but also the success of the business community.
In Spokane, we have a business where I hold all my coffee meetings, Brews Bros, conveniently located in the Peyton building complex and a few hundred feet from the Spokane Transit hub. Brews Bros has continued to hire people with disabilities for as long as I can remember.
I was raised to have a strong ethic. In my upper teen years, we lived on the outskirts of Spokane, close enough to the city line that I went to the Cheney School District. There was always something to do: feeding chickens, dogs, donkeys, goats, and of course, cleaning up after them, restocking firewood for a wood stove, and keeping the acreage in top shape. These things taught me a lot about the kind of work I wanted to do. My first summer job was working on a weed crew at a local Air Force Base, where I made subminimum wage. I wanted to quit after the first week, but I believe that once you accept a job, you are obligated to show up and put in 100% every day.
Flash forward to 2022, I led a legislative effort that banned subminimum wages in the state of Washington, which has led to a net zero count of 14c certificates in Washington State (since November of 2023). DSHS and L&I just released a final report that shuttered the state’s special certificate program.
Many positive things are happening to support people with disabilities in the workforce. My favorite right now is social enterprises that create tangible training opportunities for those with disabilities. During an APSE conference last year in charlotte our team took a visit to Bitty & Beaus Coffee a social enterprise started by Ben & Amy Wright who wanted a place for their children to work when they got older. The store, outside of a few managers, was completely run by people with disabilities who had been trained in all aspects of the business. These kinds of artisan training opportunities help individuals with disabilities gain tangible experience that can translate to other businesses in the community.
“Whenever possible, we should spend our dollars at businesses who employ the people we serve.”
I’ve found that the best way to cultivate opportunities for people with disabilities is to pitch at places we frequent. Whenever possible, we should spend our dollars at businesses who employ the people we serve. From the dealership where we purchase our vehicles to the restaurants we use for board meeting catering. This makes for a true partnership that isn’t just transactional but a shared commitment to each other’s mission. If you think about it, we all have connections to an incredible number of vendors within our organizational and professional networks that could translate into opportunities for people with disabilities.
I look forward to what the next 80 years bring.
In today’s competitive job market, businesses are always on the lookout for ways to enhance their operations and improve employee satisfaction. One of the most effective, yet often overlooked, strategies is hiring people with disabilities. This approach not only promotes inclusivity but also brings a multitude of benefits that can significantly boost a company’s performance and culture.
Increased Diversity
Diversity is a cornerstone of innovation and growth in any organization. By hiring individuals with disabilities, companies can foster a more inclusive work environment that reflects a wide range of perspectives and experiences. This diversity can lead to more creative problem-solving and a greater ability to relate to a broader customer base. Employees with disabilities bring unique skills and insights that can help companies to identify new market opportunities and improve product and service offerings.
Higher Employee Retention Rates
One of the standout advantages of hiring people with disabilities is the potential for increased employee retention rates. Studies have shown that employees with disabilities often demonstrate higher levels of loyalty and commitment to their employers. This loyalty translates into lower turnover rates, which can save companies significant costs related to recruiting, hiring, and training new employees. Moreover, employees with disabilities tend to have strong work ethics and are highly motivated to perform well in their roles.
Access to a Talented and Motivated Workforce
People with disabilities represent a largely untapped pool of talent. Many individuals with disabilities possess qualifications, skills, and experiences that make them excellent candidates for a variety of positions. They often bring a strong sense of determination and resilience to their work, qualities that are invaluable in any professional setting. By expanding recruitment efforts to include people with disabilities, businesses can gain access to a talented and motivated workforce that is eager to contribute to the organization’s success.
Improved Company Image and Reputation
Companies that actively hire and support employees with disabilities are often viewed more favorably by the public. This positive perception can enhance a company’s reputation and brand image, attracting customers who value corporate social responsibility. Additionally, businesses that prioritize inclusivity may find it easier to attract top talent who want to work for organizations that are committed to diversity and equality.
Enhanced Team Morale
When companies hire people with disabilities, it sends a strong message to all employees about the organization’s values and commitment to inclusivity. This can improve overall team morale and create a more supportive and collaborative work environment. Employees who see their company embracing diversity are more likely to feel proud of their workplace and motivated to contribute to its success.
Conclusion
Hiring people with disabilities is not just a socially responsible decision; it is a smart business strategy that can yield significant benefits. From increased diversity and higher employee retention rates to accessing a talented workforce and improving company reputation, the advantages are clear. By embracing this inclusive approach, businesses can build stronger, more dynamic teams that are well-equipped to thrive in today’s ever-evolving marketplace.
For more information on how to integrate inclusive hiring practices into your business, contact AtWork! Employment Services. Let’s work together to create a more diverse and successful workforce.