October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). In collaboration with its partners, Community Living North Bay’s Employment First Program will promote disability inclusion in employment to increase public and business awareness about the valuable contributions they make in the workplace. NDEAM recognizes how people with disabilities can help companies to be successful, and the business and economic importance of the disability talent pool and disability-inclusive hiring.
Through its many programs and services, Community Living North Bay aims to uphold its mission to provide quality services to citizens with an intellectual disability and their families. The organization is committed to its role in creating a supportive and accepting community.
Myths about people who have a disability are still common and need to be dispelled by raising awareness and educating the community and businesses. People who have a disability can work, want to work, and make a positive contribution to the workplace.
Did you know hiring a qualified candidate with a disability brings greater benefits beyond filling the job? Statistics reveal retention rates are 72 per cent higher among persons with disabilities. This means, less turn over and more loyalty. Research also shows diverse teams that include employees with disabilities are often more creative and productive.
Another interesting fact - customers with disabilities and their families and friends represent a huge market for businesses. Studies show that 78 per cent of Canadians are more likely to buy a product or service from a business that has a policy of hiring persons with a disability, which is why many employers are boosting profitability by reaching new markets.
To promote inclusive workforces, Community Living North Bay’s Employment First Team works together with employers, candidates, and business owners to meet the community’s employment needs. Its success is based on a formula that ensures dynamic and on-going supports are provided to the employer and candidate to assist in maintaining job and performance expectations. An inclusive workforce is a strong workforce!
In preparation for NDEAM, Employment First is challenging local businesses and organizations across Canada to Light It Up! for NDEAM, Oct. 21, 2021. This night in October will see businesses and organizations light up its buildings purple and blue for one night only.
This year, Light It Up! for NDEAM will be going national thanks to a collaborative effort between ODEN, The Canadian Association for Supported Employment, MentorAbility Canada, and many community-based agencies across the country like Community Living North Bay. Locally, buildings such as City Hall, Community Living North Bay offices, and many other community partners will be participating.
Community Living North Bay Employment First Manager Mackenzie Mannering explains, “By participating in Light It Up! for NDEAM, businesses and organizations will be recognizing the many ways people with disabilities who live in our region contribute to our local businesses and industries, and to our community as a collective.”
For details on this important event or what Employment First can do for your business, check out Employment First’s Facebook page and visit their website.
Questions for our Employment Specialists? Call 705-476-3288 or send an email to [email protected].