October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) — a time to spotlight the skills, creativity, and contributions that people with disabilities bring to the workplace.  This month-long observance not only celebrates those contributions but also calls on employers to promote inclusive practices and build cultures where everyone’s talents are valued. 

At Fello, we believe inclusion isn’t just good practice—it’s the key to stronger businesses and thriving communities.  

In our upcoming episode of Fello Thinking Differently, our original podcast, Laura Degler, Assistant Director of Workforce Development, and Jodie Colombo, Director of Day Services, share insights on why employment matters and how Fello helps people find jobs that match their skills and goals. 

🎧 Listen to Episode 4: Thriving at Work & in the Community

A Legacy of Progress 

What began in 1945 as “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week” has grown into a month-long observance that includes people with all types of disabilities. Over the decades, the awareness campaign has fostered stronger legal protections for workers with disabilities, shifted public attitudes, and encouraged employers to embrace inclusive hiring practices.  

Today, NDEAM celebrates progress while calling on all of us to continue building workplaces where equity and opportunity are the norm. 

Why Inclusion in the Workplace Matters 

For people with disabilities, employment offers more than a paycheck. It’s a pathway to independence, social connection, purpose, and self-worth.  

“Employment gives you a purpose,” says Laura. “It gives you an opportunity to be included in your community. It helps you provide for your family and gain independence, buy the things you want, and even make friends.” 

Inclusive workplaces strengthen businesses, too: they bring diverse perspectives that spark creativity, fuel innovation, and improve team problem-solving. In fact, according to asystematic review of peer-reviewed studies, organizations that employ people with disabilities see improvements in profitability, reduced turnover, and greater employee loyalty. 

Yet the data reminds us there is still work to be done. Unemployment rates for people with disabilities remain significantly higher than those without, and too many are underemployed or working fewer hours than they’d prefer. These gaps show that awareness months like NDEAM are more than symbolic—they’re calls to action. 

Fello’s Workforce Development Program 

Fello bridges the gap between talented job seekers with disabilities and Maryland businesses looking for dedicated employees with our Workforce Development program. Drawing on decades of experience supporting people with disabilities, our Workforce Development program helps people find meaningful careers while helping employers access a skilled, motivated workforce—all with ongoing support that ensures success for everyone. 

• Personalized job matching: Connecting skills and career goals with employer needs through a network of 160+ participants. 

• Comprehensive support for all: Resume building, interview prep, and coaching for job seekers, plus onboarding and accommodation guidance for employers. 

• Expert guidance at no cost: Professional support with compliance, accommodations, and workplace solutions. 

• Long-term success focus: We’re committed to sustainable employment relationships, with proven results including an average job tenure of 4+ years and 30% of participants employed over 5 years at the same company. 

Join Us in Creating Opportunity 

As we celebrate NDEAM this year, we also look forward to workplaces where people with disabilities are not just employed but empowered. And, where their work environments are flexible, accessible, and their contributions are valued equally.  

Ready to take the next step? Whether you’re a person with disabilities looking for meaningful employment or a business seeking dedicated talent, Fello’s Workforce Development Program is here to help. Contact us at 443.962.2882 or visit fello.org/fello-services/workforce-development/ to learn more about how we can support your goals and create lasting employment success together.