Recognizing National Disability Employment Awareness Month: Honoring Talent, Embracing Opportunity

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time set aside each year to honor the contributions of individuals with disabilities to our workforce, and to renew our commitment to creating workplaces and communities where everyone can thrive. At Central Oregon Collective, our mission is to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live full, included, and meaningful lives. NDEAM is a chance to reflect on this mission, celebrate progress, and recommit to the work that’s yet to be done.

What is NDEAM & Why It Matters

Originating in 1945 as “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week,” the observance has evolved to become NDEAM, recognizing that people with all types of disabilities bring unique skills, perspectives, and talents to the workforce.

Why this matters:

• Many individuals with disabilities face systemic barriers to employment — from inaccessible job listings and interviews, to lack of accommodations, to persistent stigma.
• Employed people with IDD often gain not just income, but confidence, greater independence, and stronger community connection.
• For workplaces and communities, inclusion is a win: diverse teams are more creative, resilient, and connected to the full spectrum of our society.

This October, we invite Central Oregon employers to reflect on how inclusive hiring practices open doors to both opportunity and innovation.

Central Oregon Collective’s Commitment

At In the Collective, our programs center on inclusion, independence, and community participation. We believe that “meaningful contribution” includes work — paid or volunteer — that aligns with people’s interests, skills, and choices.

Some of the ways we support supported employment opportunities in Bend and across Central Oregon:

• Supported Living & In-Home Supports: helping people build life skills and participate fully in their communities, including meaningful employment or volunteer roles.
• Community Inclusion Program: offering opportunities for social connection, skill‐building, and community engagement, which often lead to employment pathways.
• Affordable Housing & Group Homes: stable housing creates a foundation for pursuing employment, independence, and active participation in community life.

How We Can All Move Forward This NDEAM

Review and Adapt Hiring Practices

Ensure job postings clearly state that accommodations are available. Focus on essential skills, and use inclusive language.

Provide Accessible Supports

Invest in adaptive tools, assistive technology, and flexible work settings that make for accessible workplaces for people with disabilities.

Partner & Collaborate Locally

Businesses in Bend, Redmond, Sisters, and beyond can partner with organizations like ours to host job fairs, offer internships, or create mentorship programs.

Celebrate Stories & Share Success

Highlight individuals with disabilities who are thriving in the workplace, and give them the space to share their own stories.

Advocate & Raise Awareness

Share resources like the Department of Labor’s NDEAM page and encourage inclusive workplace policies at every level.

National Disability Employment Awareness Month is more than an observance — it’s a reminder that inclusion, meaningful work, and opportunity must be a year-round priority. At Central Oregon Collective, we believe every person has inherent worth, deserves respect, and should have the chance to contribute.

If you’re an employer, community member, or someone seeking support, reach out through our Careers page or learn more about our programs. Together, we can continue creating opportunities, promoting independence, and building a community grounded in respect, generosity, and belonging.