MEDIA CONTACT
Erin Maier, (531) 893-1359,
erin.maier@nebraska.gov
Lincoln, NE – National Disability Employment Awareness Month is an annual time to pause and celebrate the value and talent individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities (IDD) contribute to the workforce. This October, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recognizes the achievements of individuals with IDD in the workplace, importance of employment opportunities, and resources for supported employment.
“Employment is a vital part of empowering individuals to live with dignity, independence, and make meaningful connections in their community," said Tony Green, Director of the Division of Developmental Disabilities within DHHS. “All Nebraskans deserve to pursue their life aspirations and explore the possibility of a fulfilling career throughout their lifespan. Skill building and employment opportunities provide meaningful connections, engagement with peers, and community involvement."
Many individuals with disabilities are willing, ready, and excited to work. According to a national survey done by National Core Indicators in 2023-2024, 41% of individuals with IDD in Nebraska do not have a paid community job but want one. Many include a goal for employment into their service plan. Engaging in employment allows individuals to contribute to their community while strengthening the businesses with unique skills and abilities.
By hiring individuals with IDD, a business can expand its talent pool, strengthen its workforce, gain new insights into customer service designs specific for this population, understand new consumer experience perspectives, and solve work-related problems.
Employment opens up opportunities for individuals with IDD to be contributing members of their community and engage with others in the ways they want.
There are benefits to the public, media, and community relations that businesses experience by creating a strong and welcoming workforce. Supportive workplaces can lead to better leadership skills and abilities, help businesses meet their talent needs, and strengthen their competitive edge.
There are resources available for employers who are looking to strengthen their workforce by helping individuals with IDD find meaningful employment in their community.
Employers who are interested in learning about the resources available to them are encouraged to contact Nebraska Vocational Rehabilitation (VR). Individuals with disabilities who are interested in seeking employment should reach out to their local Nebraska VR Service Office or their Service Coordinator.
For Home and Community Based Services Waiver participants, planning resources for competitive integrated employment can be found at: dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/HCBS-Participant-Planning.aspx#bookmark
Supportive Employment Webinars hosted by DHHS, Nebraska VR, and Nebraska Council on Developmental Disabilities provide more information about competitive employment and understanding a participant's benefits with a career. Information on locating employment will be available during the webinar on October 23, 2025 from noon to 1 pm. More information and registration can be found at: dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Developmental-Disabilities.aspx.