October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time to recognize the invaluable contributions of people with disabilities in the workforce. This year’s theme, “Celebrating Value and Talent,” aligns with NDEAM’s 80th anniversary and reminds us to foster inclusive workplaces where everyone can thrive.
For IDD agencies and employers, NDEAM is more than awareness; it’s a call to action. It’s an opportunity to review hiring practices, improve support systems, and ensure pathways to meaningful employment are accessible. Achieving this requires dedication and efficient operations. When administrative tasks overwhelm staff, it diverts focus from supporting individuals.
This guide explores the importance of NDEAM, offers actionable steps for employers and agencies to champion disability employment, and shows how technology can streamline operations, letting teams focus on empowering individuals and improving lives.
The Mission of NDEAM
First observed in 1945, NDEAM began as a week to honor the contributions of Americans with physical disabilities. Expanded to a month in 1988, it now celebrates all disabilities, visible and non-visible. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) encourages organizations to create equitable employment opportunities. This year’s theme urges employers and agencies to recognize and cultivate the immense value people with disabilities bring.
How Employers Can Champion Disability Employment
Building an inclusive workplace is an ongoing process, and NDEAM is the perfect time to evaluate our efforts. Here’s how employers can make an impact:
Review Policies
Ensure policies reflect a commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Review job descriptions, applications, and interview processes for biases. Clearly communicate processes for requesting accommodations.
Educate Teams
Foster an inclusive culture through training on disability etiquette, unconscious bias, and workplace accessibility. Resources like the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) provide training modules ready for use.
Actively Recruit
Partner with IDD agencies, vocational services, and community organizations to connect with skilled, motivated talent. Building these partnerships creates a sustainable pipeline of employees ready to contribute.
The Role of IDD Agencies
IDD agencies provide the training and support individuals need to succeed. However, managing administrative demands—such as tracking service hours, managing payroll, and ensuring compliance—can be overwhelming. Streamlining these processes allows agencies to focus on client support.
Streamline Operations with Vertex Systems
Vertex Systems offers specialized software to help IDD agencies simplify operations and focus on their mission. Our tools reduce administrative burdens, improve efficiency, and enhance client outcomes.
Integrated Case Management
Our Case Manager software tracks client progress, ensures compliance, and organizes data in one place, streamlining reporting and improving service delivery.
Simplified Payroll and Billing
Manage payroll and billing with precision using tools like Client Payroll Manager for compliance, Vertex Staff Payroll for in-house payroll, and Billing Manager to save time on invoicing.
Time and Attendance Solutions
Accurately track hours with tools like WorkforceHub and Vocational Time Manager, ensuring compliance and efficiency.
By consolidating these functions into one platform, Vertex eliminates data silos, reduces errors, and frees your team to focus on empowering individuals.
Take the Next Step
NDEAM is a reminder to build a more inclusive workforce. For employers, it’s about creating opportunities. For IDD agencies, it’s about providing the support individuals need to succeed. Achieving this requires passion, dedication, and the right tools. Vertex Systems can handle your back-office operations, letting you focus on your core mission of celebrating and empowering individuals.
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