Celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month 

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. This month celebrates the skills, talents, and contributions of workers with disabilities with the goal of shining a light on the importance of building more inclusive workplaces across the country. At TNC Community, our mission has always been rooted in creating opportunities for people with disabilities to connect, contribute, and thrive. With our social enterprise, Howdy Homemade Ice Cream, we’re putting this mission into action every day.

Why NDEAM Matters

Despite progress, people with disabilities continue to face significant employment barriers in the workforce. Although many people with disabilities are willing to work, according to the U.S. Department of Labor:

  • The 2024 employment-population ratio for people with disabilities was just 38.5% compared to 74.5% for those without disabilities.
  • The unemployment rate for people with disabilities stood at 8.8%, double the 4.4% unemployment rate for people without disabilities.

These disparities underscore why NDEAM is so important, and why TNC Community is committed to creating more equitable opportunities.

TNC Community’s Role in Expanding Access

For more than 75 years, TNC Community has provided support and services that empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Kansas City region. Our approach is about more than programs. It’s about fostering independence, encouraging inclusion, and building pathways to meaningful employment.

Howdy Homemade: Inclusion in Action

One of the most exciting ways we bring this vision to life is through Howdy Homemade Ice Cream in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. Howdy Homemade isn’t just about sweet treats; it’s about meaningful jobs. The shop is staffed by individuals with IDD who receive training, support, and the chance to showcase their talents in a welcoming, customer-facing environment.

Each scoop of ice cream we sell is a celebration of inclusion. Every customer who walks through the doors is helping break down employment barriers for people with disabilities. It’s NDEAM in action, right here in our community.

How You Can Support NDEAM with TNC Community

This October, you can make a difference:

Together, we can move the needle on disability employment and ensure that everyone has the chance to thrive in the workplace.

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