Fairfax County Department of Family Services is proud to participate in National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). Held each October, NDEAM aims to recognize the essential role people with disabilities play in our nation’s economic success through employment.
This year’s theme, "Disability: Part of the Equity Equation," recognizes the vital role people with disabilities play in making the nation's workforce diverse and inclusive. According to the U.S. Census Bureau for the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 19.1 percent of persons with a disability were employed in 2021; 9.6 percent were self-employed*.
Each October, Fairfax County Board of Supervisors proudly introduces a proclamation to celebrate Disability Employment Awareness Month. The proclamation by Chairman Jeff McKay recognizes the contributions of workers with disabilities and the county's commitment to help educate the public about disability employment issues. Fairfax County Government values the contributions of all people, including those of individuals with disabilities and celebrates in their accomplishments.
Fairfax County’s Disability Rights and Resources (DRR) unit hosts an annual Employment Mentoring Day event every October. We partner with Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) to educate high school students about employment opportunities and requirements and celebrate the many contributions of America's workers with disabilities.
Last year during our mentoring day event, VA Career Works Center presented on The Virtual Employment Experience and answered students’ questions about how to succeed in remote jobs. Moriah Kitaeff, one of our past John Hudson Interns, shared her internship experience and answered students questions. There was a fun break for students with the Fairfax County Employee Fitness Center leading a movement activity. Students also heard firsthand about Information Technology, Telework, Child Care, Emergency Management and Healthcare positions. Students engaged in the activities and DRR received positive feedback from students, teachers and employees.
While disability employment is celebrated in October, it is imperative that advocacy take place year-round to ensure that persons with disabilities are employed at a rate equal to persons without disabilities.
*Statistics obtained from the Department of Labor and the American Community Survey.