Akron Life October 2022

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National Disability Employment Awareness Month

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. It’s a time to highlight the important role that people of every ability play within the workforce. We believe that employment opportunities for people with disabilities ensure a diverse workforce and help strengthen communities — now and into the future. While we celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October, Summit DD works year round to build relationships with community partners that promote equity and opportunities for people with developmental disabilities. Some of our employment

CELEBRATING DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONALS

We can’t talk about National Disability Employment Awareness Month without recognizing direct support professionals. These unsung heroes provide direct services like job coaching and transportation to and from a person’s job. Their continued dedication makes it possible for people to reach their employment goals. We thank you for all you do each day! Wondering how you can make an impact? Hire. Talk to your employer about internships or filling open positions with people of different abilities. Visit summitdd.org/contact-us to let our Employment Collaborative connect you to a network of job seekers who may be the right fit for your employment needs. Apply. Are you interested in a career with purpose, where you can help people reach their goals? Learn more about becoming a direct support professional. Find your passion at becomeadsp.com. Support. Contact us about free inclusion training for your organization. Let us show you how your team can support coworkers of all abilities. Visit summitdd.org/contact-us to set up training today. Visit summitdd.org/ndeam for more ideas to make our local workforce more inclusive and to meet those who are already making a difference in their communities. TAKE THE NEXT STEP

related initiatives and partnerships include:

• The Summer Youth Work Program that helps teens gain on-the-job work experience

• Transition-age job

exploration programs at local high schools that prepare teens for their futures

• The Summit County Employment Collaborative that helps employers and job seekers with disabilities prepare, find and fill open positions • Inclusion Training for local organizations that helps businesses support employees of every ability

Summit DD | 2355 Second St., Cuyahoga Falls | 330-634-8000 | summitdd.org

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