Southeast Enterprises today 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 share information
on disability employment issues and celebrate the widespread contributions of America’s
workers with disabilities. This year’s theme is “Increasing Access and Opportunity.”
Since its founding, Southeast Enterprises has worked to provide dignified and
meaningful employment to area residents with developmental disabilities. A member of
the Missouri Association of Sheltered Workshop Managers (MASWM), Southeast
Enterprises provides services such as, job training, working on life skills, improving fine
motor skills, counting, team building, patience & problem solving to create opportunities
for employment of people with disabilities and help them live life to the fullest.
Throughout October, Southeast Enterprises will celebrate its programs to support and
expand disability employment and an inclusive work culture. These efforts include
weekly in-house social events for our associates to acknowledge their efforts and have
some fun. Southeast Enterprises also recognizes its business, community and other
partners who provide invaluable support.
“Southeast Enterprises is proud to be a part of this year’s National Disability
Employment Awareness Month,” said Lauren Hall “We want to spread the important
message that we value all perspectives, and employment opportunities for the diverse
citizens of Jackson County.
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.
“Ensuring that America’s workplaces continue to include and accommodate people with
disabilities will be an important part of our economic rebound,” said U.S. Secretary of
Labor Eugene Scalia. “Looking ahead, the Department will remain focused on the
policies that led to a strong economy and record-low unemployment rates for persons
with disabilities prior to the pandemic. A vigorous economic rebound and job growth will,
alongside the Americans with Disabilities Act, increase access and opportunity for
Americans with disabilities.”
Employers and employees in all industries can learn more about how to participate in
National Disability Employment Awareness Month and ways they can promote its
messages — during October and throughout the year — by
visiting www.dol.gov/NDEAM.
