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Celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Empowering individuals with disabilities to achieve meaningful employment and independence.

This month marks the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time to recognize the incredible contributions of people with disabilities in the American workforce. What began in 1945 as a weeklong observance highlighting the achievements of workers with physical disabilities has grown into a nationwide celebration of all individuals with disabilities who enrich our workplaces and communities. This year, NDEAM honors the theme “Celebrating Value and Talent,” acknowledging the skills, dedication, and accomplishments of American workers with disabilities both past and present.

Matthew Sharp and Emily Hula group shot

Brewing Confidence: How a Partnership is Changing the Community at Gusto Coffee

At Gusto, every latte comes with a shot of trust. Barista Matthew Sharp has found his own rhythm, voice, and community thanks to a partnership between Easterseals Midwest and Gusto's owner, Emily Hula. Together, they're proving that inclusion isn't only good for business: it's healthy for the soul.

Elena Stolle

Leading by Example: How Elena Found Her Place at Breeze Park

What began as a summer job became a monumental moment for Elena Stolle, one filled with leadership and lasting connections.

David Magia Sanchez smiling, decked in St. Louis Aquarium gear.

David's Story: From Nervous Beginnings to Full-Fledged Confidence

David Magia Sanchez has found more than just employment at the St. Louis Aquarium. He’s found purpose. Supported by his job coach, David has transformed his fervent passion for animals into a full-fledged career, where he shares knowledge, builds confidence, and inspires others.

Our Impact

At Easterseals Midwest, we see the value and talent of individuals with disabilities every day. Through our Summer Work Programs in St. Louis, students gain essential hard and soft skills that prepare them for long-term employment. In 2025, 92 students participated across two sessions at 16 partnering sites, including four new partners. Many students completed multi-week programs successfully, and several were offered ongoing employment at local businesses like Gusto Coffee and Joe Town Speedway.

Across all of our employment services in Kansas City, St. Joseph, and St. Louis, the results speak for themselves.

Our Reach & Impact

Learn More about Summer Work Experience
  • 100%
    retention rate among participants after 90 days in their career.
  • $15.70
    average wage for participants, $2 above minimum wage.
  • 72
    participants received job offers after completing the program.

Our Services

Most individuals living with disabilities want and deserve meaningful employment, yet only one-third of the disability community is part of the workforce. Too often individuals with disabilities are unemployed or underemployed, and Easterseals is committed to being a part of the solution.

  • People sitting at a table making holiday-themed cards

    Community Services

    Easterseals Midwest offers weekday skill-building programs for adults 18+ focused on independence, self-advocacy, and preparing for employment or volunteerism
  • A man in a Home Depot apron showing off a three years of service award button

    LINK Autism Employment Services

    This program supports job seekers with autism in building social and communication skills for the workplace through one-on-one pragmatic language sessions, social skill classes, and job development support.

Our Successes

Group of iHop workers standing in the back of the restaurant

Meet Robin: From Unsure Employment to Employee of the Month

Robin exemplifies the power of meeting people where they are, building on their strengths, and empowering them to achieve milestones once thought unattainable.

becky

Meet Becky: A Love for Science leads to a Lifetime Career

Becky stepped out of her comfort zone and shot for the stars, landing her dream career.

Young adult in hairnet and Mercy Hospital scrubs, standing in front of an industrial kitchen

Meet Chris: Discovering a Passion for Helping Others through a New Career

Chris felt at a loss when he faced the prospect of joining the workforce. But that changed when he took part in Project SEARCH with Easterseals.

This National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we celebrate the value and talent that people with disabilities bring to our workforce and economy. Join us in recognizing their achievements by learning more about our programs, supporting our mission, or becoming a partner in creating accessible career opportunities. Together, we can ensure that every individual has the chance to contribute, succeed, and thrive.