Celebrating Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month:
Building a World of Inclusion
Every March, we join the national community to celebrate Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time dedicated to highlighting the talents, contributions, and potential of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). At AtWork!, this month is a powerful reminder of our mission to empower people with disabilities to be involved, contributing, and thriving members of their communities.
The Power of Inclusion
For over 60 years, AtWork! has pioneered the belief that people with disabilities belong in their home communities and have the capacity to work and contribute. While the world has made progress since we first began in 1962, a significant gap remains: according to the U.S. Department of Labor, only about 23% of working-age adults with disabilities are employed, compared to over 66% of those without disabilities.
We believe this gap is about access and opportunity, not ability. Employment is more than a paycheck; it is a pathway to purpose, confidence, and belonging. This is why we work tirelessly across King, Snohomish, Spokane, and Kittitas counties to “change the face of employment” one job match at a time.
Transforming Lives Through Service
Our approach is holistic, supporting individuals throughout their adult lives:
- School-to-Work (Transition): We partner with local school districts to help students move from high school into paid community jobs with the goal of “Jobs by June”.
- Employment Services: We use a customized employment model, matching the specific skills of a job seeker with the real needs of a business. This has led to incredible milestones, such as Blake celebrating 20 years at Starbucks and Richard reaching his 25th anniversary with our Businesses Powered by AtWork! team.
- Community Inclusion: We believe community connection is vital at every age, helping retired individuals or those seeking deeper social ties to volunteer, join clubs, and build lasting friendships.
"Nothing About Us Without Us"
Advocacy is the heartbeat of our organization. A major highlight of our recent work was the passage of the “Nothing About Us Without Us” bill (HB 1541) in 2024. This landmark legislation mandates that Washington state government agencies include people with disabilities in the decision-making processes that affect their lives.
This month, we celebrate the fact that inclusion means everyone.
Blake celebrating 20 years at Starbucks!
Richard reaching his 25th anniversary with our Businesses Powered by AtWork! team!
The passage of the “Nothing About Us Without Us” bill (HB 1541) in 2024!
How You Can Get Involved
- Hire with Purpose: If you are a business owner, consider creating a hiring initiative. Inclusive workplaces are more innovative and productive.
- Advocate: Sign up for Advocacy Alerts to stay informed on legislative issues that impact the disability community.
- Support the Mission: Join the Randall Club, our monthly giving community dedicated to making the dream of inclusion a reality.
Together, we are making the world a more inclusive place where every person is valued for their talent and human dignity.
