SourceAmerica's Role in National Disability Employment Awareness Month
SourceAmerica emphasizes the vital contributions of workers with disabilities.
SourceAmerica, a national nonprofit organization, is dedicated to creating employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities through various federal contracts. Each October, SourceAmerica takes the opportunity to celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), honoring the skills and contributions that these workers offer to the workforce and the economy.
NDEAM serves as a powerful reminder of the potential that workers with disabilities possess. Richard Belden, the president and CEO of SourceAmerica, expressed pride in the organization’s milestones and its ongoing commitment to enhancing employment opportunities for these individuals. He noted the importance of recognizing their impact on the production of American-made products and the overall support of military readiness during this month.
The Impact of Workers with Disabilities
Recent statistics underscore the significant presence of individuals with disabilities in the U.S. labor force. According to studies conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 70 million adults in the United States report having a disability. Additionally, data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights that the unemployment rate among working-age individuals with disabilities stands at 8.1%. This points out the ongoing challenges that these individuals face in securing meaningful employment.
For over five decades, SourceAmerica has been a crucial support system in narrowing the employment gap for people with disabilities. The organization facilitates connections between more than 400,000 individuals in this demographic with meaningful job opportunities through its vast network of nonprofit agencies and business partnerships. Currently, SourceAmerica:
Key Contributions
- Works with over 500 nonprofit organizations to provide jobs for roughly 59,000 workers with disabilities across the nation.
- Employs nearly 36,000 individuals with disabilities on AbilityOne contracts, where the average wage stands at $18.96 per hour.
- Delivers high-quality products and services that directly contribute to the federal government and uphold military readiness.
This October, SourceAmerica encourages employers in diverse industries to join their efforts in recognizing and honoring the invaluable contributions of workers with disabilities. The organization emphasizes the need to take proactive steps in celebrating the achievements and potentials of individuals within the workforce.
Engagement Opportunities for Employers
In light of NDEAM, SourceAmerica invites organizations to actively engage with their initiatives that celebrate inclusion. By acknowledging the significant contributions of disabled workers, employers can enhance workplace diversity and foster an inclusive environment that benefits all parties involved.
Future Steps for Inclusion
SourceAmerica aims to continue its commitment to improving job opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Their innovative approaches and supportive network empower these workers, paving the way for more inclusive workplaces across various sectors. Employers are encouraged to collaborate with SourceAmerica to access resources that facilitate the employment of individuals with disabilities.
For insights on how workers with disabilities support military readiness through quality services and product delivery to the federal government, further exploration of these themes can be beneficial. Engagement with the organization can yield valuable information about the programs they offer.
About SourceAmerica
SourceAmerica is a dedicated national nonprofit organization that administers the AbilityOne Program, which aims to create employment opportunities for people with disabilities through federal contracts. By connecting employers with a skilled workforce, SourceAmerica serves as a vital bridge to navigate the specifics of the AbilityOne Program and maximize the potential of this talent pool. To learn more, the organization encourages all stakeholders to explore their resources and participate in their mission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SourceAmerica's mission?
SourceAmerica aims to create meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities through federal contracts.
What does National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) celebrate?
NDEAM celebrates the contributions and skills of workers with disabilities and encourages inclusive practices in workplaces.
How many individuals with disabilities does SourceAmerica employ?
SourceAmerica partners with over 500 nonprofits to employ around 59,000 individuals with disabilities nationwide.
What is the average wage for workers with disabilities under AbilityOne contracts?
The average wage for workers with disabilities on AbilityOne contracts is approximately $18.96 per hour.
How can employers support the employment of individuals with disabilities?
Employers can support these efforts by partnering with organizations like SourceAmerica and creating inclusive hiring practices.
