DDSN Joins Governor’s Office in Celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs (DDSN) is observing National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) by bringing awareness to both the residents of South Carolina with disabilities who are in the workforce, and the businesses that employ them. NDEAM is recognized annually in October.

“This month highlights the determined individuals we serve and the committed businesses who employ them. We also recognize the unfailing dedication our provider network exhibits every day to assist individuals with making their dreams come true through employment,” said Becky Peters, DDSN’s Director of Adult Supports. “DDSN is committed to supporting providers as well as advocating for, developing, and enforcing policies to ensure individuals with disabilities have the opportunity to enjoy the same employment opportunities as everyone else.”

DDSN’s Employment Services Division, among other tasks, trains providers so they have the skills to prepare individuals with disabilities to enter the workforce and maintain employment long-term. Through these trainings, DDSN and its 41 Employment Services providers currently support more than 1,140 employees with disabilities across the state.

In addition to DDSN’s celebration, Gov. Henry McMaster issued a proclamation, touting those who take part in the hiring and employment process for individuals with disabilities. In part, the proclamation states residents with disabilities “have the same aspirations to work competitively and contribute to their communities as everyone else,” and that we all play a role in removing the “barriers that hinder” their ability to work.

“National Disability Employment Awareness Month recognizes that individuals with disabilities are capable, contributing members of society worthy of full access and inclusion in South Carolina’s workforce,” McMaster states in the proclamation.

Peters added, “DDSN appreciates Gov. McMaster’s proclamation and the statewide recognition it creates. We applaud individuals with disabilities for the array of skills they showcase at work every day, and the employers who recognize how vital they are to the South Carolina’s workforce.”

The South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs plans, develops, coordinates and funds services for residents with various severe, lifelong disabilities. Populations served include individuals with an Intellectual Disability or a Related Disability (ID/RD), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury, and Similar Disabilities.

For more on DDSN’s activities and mission, visit our website and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.