By Janet Bruckshen / For The Herald
During National Disability Employment Awareness Month this October, it’s important to recognize that the work of creating inclusive employment opportunities isn’t done in isolation.
Washington Vocational Services is one of many organizations working tirelessly to ensure that individuals with disabilities have access to meaningful employment. While our efforts are significant, we are part of a larger movement, one that includes countless partners, advocates and community leaders who share our vision for a more inclusive workforce.
A collective mission: The mission to support individuals with disabilities in the workforce is shared by organizations across the country. We are united by a commitment to inclusion, and together we’re creating pathways to employment for people who have historically been excluded. Whether through direct employment services, advocacy for policy change, or partnerships with businesses, the work done by organizations like ours is transformative; and it’s only possible because we’re not doing it alone.
At WVS, we see our role as a bridge between individuals with disabilities and the employers who need their talents. But we are just one piece of the puzzle. Other organizations, from state agencies like the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation and the Developmental Disabilities Administration to advocacy groups like Disability Rights Washington and the Community Employment Alliance, are equally essential in moving the needle forward. Together, we ensure that people with disabilities have the resources, support and opportunities they need to succeed in the workforce.
The Power of Partnerships Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. It is through partnerships with employers, community organizations and government agencies that we make the kind of impact that changes lives. At WVS, we work hand-in-hand with local businesses to ensure they’re equipped to create inclusive environments for all employees. We also collaborate with peer organizations to share resources and best practices, ensuring that the collective effort toward workforce inclusion remains strong.
Our partners understand that supported employment is about more than just hiring individuals with disabilities; it’s about providing accommodations, training and ongoing support to ensure long-term success. This collaborative effort benefits not only the individuals we serve but also the businesses enriched by a more diverse and dedicated workforce.
The role of elected officials and policymakers: While nonprofit organizations and businesses play critical roles, we can’t forget the importance of public policy in supporting these efforts. Elected officials and policymakers have a responsibility to create environments where inclusive employment thrives. By advocating for policies that promote disability employment programs, providing funding for vocational training and removing barriers to entry, our government partners help expand access to employment for individuals with disabilities.
October is the perfect time for elected officials to renew their commitment to inclusive employment. National Disability Employment Awareness Month brings national attention to this cause, and it’s an opportunity for lawmakers to engage with organizations like ours to understand the challenges and successes we experience on the ground. By working together, we can build a policy landscape that supports inclusion and opens doors for more people with disabilities to enter the workforce.
Raising awareness; a shared responsibility: NDEAM is not just about recognizing the progress we’ve made; it’s about acknowledging the work that still needs to be done. While Washington Vocational Services and other organizations provide year-round support to individuals with disabilities, NDEAM gives us the platform to bring these issues to the forefront of public consciousness. This is a shared responsibility. We need employers, community leaders, policymakers and the public to understand the importance of inclusive employment and to take action in their own spheres of influence.
Organizations like WVS, Disability Rights Washington, the Arc of Washington State, the Developmental Disabilities Administration, and the Community Employment Alliance are all doing incredible work in different areas of disability support. By raising awareness during this month, we aim to inspire others to join us in this mission, whether that means hiring inclusively, advocating for better policies, or simply spreading the word about the value of a diverse workforce.
Looking ahead: As we celebrate NDEAM this October, let’s remember that creating inclusive employment opportunities is a collective effort. WVS is proud to be part of a larger network of organizations, advocates and employers working toward the same goal. We believe in the potential of every individual, and together, we can ensure that individuals with disabilities have the opportunities they deserve.
This October, I encourage everyone — businesses, government leaders, and community members — to consider how they can contribute to this cause. By working together, we can create a more inclusive future for all.
Janet Bruckshen is executive director of Washington Vocational Services.
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