KenCrest Celebrates Disability Employment Awareness in October
KenCrest celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) by advocating for people with disabilities.
By Sydney Kerelo
October marks National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time to honor the contributions of workers with disabilities and to promote inclusive employment practices. This year’s theme, “Access to Good Jobs for All,” confirms the commitment to ensuring disabled workers have access to good jobs every month of every year.
Led by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP), the National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) recognizes the vital role people with disabilities play in a diverse and inclusive workplace and raises awareness about disability importance issues.
Since 1984, KenCrest has been a strong advocate for disability employment, striving to create meaningful job opportunities for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through our diverse employment programs, we have successfully supported individuals in finding paid employment, pursuing self-employment, and transitioning from school to career. Our programs not only enhance economic independence but also promote a more inclusive workforce.
KenCrest’s Employment Programs: Empowering Individuals to Succeed
At KenCrest, we believe every individual has unique strengths and talents that can be leveraged in the workplace. Our employment services provide comprehensive support to help individuals find jobs that match their skills and interests. We offer on-the-job training, resume development, and interview preparation to ensure our participants are well-equipped for success.
Customized Self-Employment Opportunities
One of the unique aspects of KenCrest’s employment program is our focus on nontraditional employment, such as self-employment. We support individuals in turning their hobbies and passions into viable businesses. For example, Lula, a participant in our Community-Based Living Program, turned her love for baking into a business. She started making cookies for local events and had her first major gig at KenCrest’s 2022 Master’s event. Lula’s story is just one of many successes in our program.
KenCrest aims to help people become independent by turning their skills and interests into career opportunities. Whether that is making jewelry, woodworking, or baking, KenCrest wants them to realize their potential and build a sustainable career.
School-to-Career Transition Programs
For young adults transitioning from school to the workforce, KenCrest offers Project SEARCH—a person-centered internship program that provides classroom learning and hands-on work experience at Phoenixville Hospital. Participants gain skills in various areas, such as cafeteria services, environmental services, and clerical work, preparing them for future employment.
Project SEARCH started at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, which has over 200 locations internationally. Out of the 10 Pennsylvania sites, KenCrest was one of the first ones.
The Role of Benefits Counseling in Financial Independence
Understanding the complexities of Social Security benefits and how employment affects them can be challenging. KenCrest’s Benefits Counseling services help individuals navigate these issues, ensuring they make informed financial decisions. The Ticket to Work program is also available to help participants transition from receiving benefits to full employment.
KenCrest wants participants to achieve financial stability while understanding how their benefits work and providing the support they need to thrive independently.
KenCrest is proud to be part of NDEAM, highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We work with various employers and organizations to create job opportunities that harness our participants’ unique skills and perspectives.
Join KenCrest in Advancing Access and Equity
As we celebrate NDEAM, KenCrest remains committed to advocating for people with disabilities in the workplace. Whether through traditional employment, self-employment, or transition programs, we strive to empower every individual we support to reach their full potential.
For more information on our employment programs and how to get involved, visit KenCrest’s Employment Services. Let’s work together to build a more inclusive and equitable workforce for all.