"Expanding employment opportunities and improving quality of life for all Marylanders, including those with disabilities, is one of our top priorities," said Governor Hogan. "People with disabilities are often underrepresented in our workforce, and it's essential that we work to make employers aware of the valuable skills and unique contributions these Marylanders make to our economy."
The Maryland Department of Disabilities will mark the month with a public awareness campaign throughout October. The campaign will provide information to potential employers on the benefits of hiring workers with disabilities. The department will also provide resources to Marylanders with disabilities seeking employment in their communities.
In celebration of Disability Employment Awareness Month, Maryland PROMISE will premiere a short film highlighting an employment success story from one of their participants. The Maryland Department of Disabilities is the lead agency administering the federal PROMISE grant on behalf of the state of Maryland. Maryland is one of six grantees receiving funding for five years from the U.S. Department of Education to develop, implement, and evaluate a service model that promotes positive outcomes for youth whose families are in financial need and currently utilize public benefits. These outcomes include ensuring the participants receive case management support and early work experiences aimed at obtaining future opportunities for job training, employment, and education post high school.
"We are pleased to highlight the immense contributions workers with disabilities bring to the State's economy during October and throughout the year," said Maryland Department of Disabilities Secretary Carol Betty. "In turn, we know businesses and employers who value an inclusive workforce are able to capitalize on this diversity, creating a more resilient and innovative economic climate in Maryland."
