October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month

LANSING, Mich., Oct. 21, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). This year's theme is #InclusionWorks and Peckham along with many other organizations and employers across the nation are celebrating the month.

"NDEAM is all about showcasing the power of people with disabilities," says Mitch Tomlinson, President & CEO of Peckham, Inc.  "For 40 years, we've seen the results and achievements of what people with disabilities can do at work. But nationally, there is much more work to be done to expand work opportunities for people with disabilities."  

According to a 2013 Cornell University report, the employment rate for working age persons in the US with a disability is 34.5% and the employment rate for working age persons in the US without a disability is 76.8%. This is nearly a 42% gap.

Peckham believes people with disabilities should have every opportunity to become fully integrated into the communities where they live and work. Peckham is committed to working with employers to serve as a resource and solution to build an inclusive workforce that includes individuals with disabilities.

"Peckham is one of the largest employers in the Lansing area, and partners with local businesses and organizations who want to create a more inclusive workforce that includes people with disabilities," says Caleb Adams, Senior Director of Vocational Services. "Last year, because of the support of local employers and their commitment to creating a more inclusive workplace, we were able to support more than 700 individuals with disabilities in earning community employment."

"Peckham's goal is to provide opportunities for people with disabilities to earn and maintain meaningful employment," says Tomlinson. "We hope our work inspires other employers to consider the skills, talents and valuable contributions of this amazing workforce."

Peckham, Inc.

Peckham, Inc. is a nonprofit community vocational rehabilitation organization that values quality, diversity and performance. Our mission is to provide a wide range of opportunities to maximize human potential for persons with disabilities who are striving for greater independence and self-sufficiency. To learn more about Peckham, visit www.peckham.org

If you are an employer who is interested in creating a more inclusive workplace, visit our website at www.peckham.org .

Contact: Kelsey Southwick, Public Relations Specialist 
517.316.4352 | [email protected]

Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20161021/431353LOGO

SOURCE Peckham, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.peckham.org