National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) reminds us that true inclusion requires rethinking traditional hiring practices. At our recent NDEAM event, co-hosted by Living Resources and Northern Rivers Family of Services, community leaders and advocacy partners gathered to discuss how businesses can build more accessible, supportive work environments.
The event opened with welcoming remarks from William Gettman, CEO of Northern Rivers, and Elizabeth Martin, CEO of Living Resources, who set a collaborative tone for the day by emphasizing the vital role inclusive employment plays in strengthening our communities.
Keynote speaker Maureen O’Brien, President and CEO of NYSID, then presented recent survey statistics highlighting both the progress made and the work remaining to expand competitive integrated employment.
Following the keynote, Assemblymember Angelo Santabarbara shared remarks reaffirming his ongoing commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities and advocating for resources across New York State.
The highlight of the event was the interactive panel forum, where industry experts addressed actionable strategies to eliminate workplace barriers and drive long-term. The event concluded with an interactive panel forum focused on breaking down workplace barriers. Panelists urged employers to shift to skills-based hiring over rigid degree requirements, with panelist Brian noting, “You can’t just cast the wider net. You need to be changing how you’re looking at that person.”
The discussion also tackled how subjective ideas of cultural “fit” can lead to bias. Panelists stressed adapting workplace systems and policies rather than expecting individuals to conform. As panelist Jen put it, “Instead of asking ‘how do we get this person to fit in?’, we need to ask ‘what might be getting in the way of that person being successful here?'”
Thank you to our presenters, panelists (Jennifer Massey, Michael Seereiter, and Brian Williams), and our sponsors for making this event such a success! By challenging outdated norms and adopting practical accommodations, organizations can build environments where every employee thrives.
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