Every October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) reminds us that a stronger workforce is built by recognizing talent wherever it exists. The 2026 theme, “Celebrating Value and Talent,” encourages employers, community leaders, and workforce partners to recognize the skills, creativity, and perspectives that workers with disabilities bring to every industry.
For Montgomery County, this isn’t simply a conversation about inclusion. It’s also about workforce development, economic opportunity, and ensuring qualified talent isn’t overlooked.
Looking Beyond Visible Disabilities
When many people hear the word disability, they think of physical conditions. In reality, disabilities can also be intellectual, developmental, psychiatric, sensory, or other nonapparent conditions, including mental health conditions.
The workforce is richer when employers recognize this diversity and create environments where every qualified candidate has an opportunity to succeed. Accessible workplaces benefit employees, businesses, and the broader community alike.
The Opportunity Behind the Employment Gap
Despite the skills and experience many people with disabilities bring to the workforce, a significant employment gap remains. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 22.8% of people with disabilities were employed in 2025, compared with 65.2% of those without disabilities. While age differences contribute to this gap, the figures highlight the importance of expanding access to employment opportunities.
For employers, this gap also represents an opportunity to connect with qualified talent that may be overlooked. Research from Accenture found that companies leading in disability inclusion achieved 1.6 times more revenue than other companies studied. Although inclusion alone doesn’t guarantee stronger financial performance, the findings demonstrate that accessibility and business success can go hand in hand.
What Can Employers Do?
Creating a more accessible hiring process doesn’t always require major changes. Small, thoughtful improvements can help qualified candidates fully demonstrate their abilities while creating a more inclusive workplace.
Consider asking:
- Do our job descriptions include physical, educational, or other requirements that aren’t essential to performing the role?
- Can candidates easily request accommodations during the recruitment process?
- Are interviews accessible for individuals with different communication or mobility needs?
- Have hiring managers received training on inclusive recruitment practices?
- Are we prepared to provide reasonable accommodations that help employees succeed after hiring?
Accessibility is not about lowering standards; it’s about ensuring every qualified applicant has a fair opportunity to succeed.
Montgomery County Is Already Taking Initiative
Montgomery County has several initiatives that demonstrate how workforce development and accessibility can go hand in hand.
Programs such as Project SEARCH Montgomery help prepare young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities for competitive employment through structured workplace internships and skills development. Meanwhile, LEAP4MCG provides a pathway to paid employment within Montgomery County Government for eligible individuals with disabilities.
Job seekers and employers can also connect through WorkSource Montgomery, which offers career services, workforce training, and employer support. Additionally, The Arc Montgomery County supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through services that promote employment, independence, and community participation.
Together, these initiatives demonstrate how local organizations can help reduce barriers to employment, build practical skills, and connect individuals with opportunities to contribute to Montgomery County’s workforce.
Moving Forward Together
Building a more inclusive workforce is a shared effort that benefits businesses, job seekers, and the entire Montgomery County community. When employers embrace accessible hiring practices and recognize diverse talent, they strengthen their organizations while contributing to a more resilient local economy.
At CERG, we believe that a stronger local economy depends on creating opportunities for people to contribute their skills and talents. This National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we encourage Montgomery County employers to examine their hiring practices, explore available workforce resources, and continue building a community where talent is recognized and opportunity is accessible to all.
About CERG 2.0 PAC
The Coalition for Equitable Representation in Government (CERG 2.0) is a political action committee committed to advancing inclusive economic growth in Montgomery County, Maryland, with a continued focus on strengthening Black communities and businesses.
We believe economic advancement requires more than conversation. It requires action, advocacy, and leadership that delivers measurable results.