October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
And Westport wants to make everyone aware.
A “Let’s Talk About Disability” forum (October 22, 12 p.m., Westport Library) highlights the 2024 theme of “Access to Good Jobs for All.”
Local businesses, employers and community members are invited to the noontime event, to explore and improve their capacity to hire and support the local workforce.
The program is a “shame-free exploration of attitudinal barriers, and creates a new perspective on the unique abilities and advantages of working with persons with disabilities.”
The Porch at Christie’s is a local leader in hiring people with disabilities.
This is hardly a one-off event.
Westport’s Commission on People with Disabilities sponsors an ongoing “Employment is for Everyone” initiative.
The goal is to provide education and awareness, through tools and guidance, to employers and employees, to find circumstances where both can thrive.
Westport Human Services director Elaine Daignault notes, “too often employers are hesitant to hire due to self-limiting perceptions, and fear or concerns over their capacity to provide ongoing support for employees with disabilities within their organizations.”
The Porch at Christie’s, Stop & Shop and Westport Book Shop are 3 local businesses that employ people with disabilities, and embrace an inclusive culture. That is part of Old Mill Grocery & Deli’s mission statement too.
According to an Accenture study, “companies that embrace best practices for employing and supporting more persons with disabilities in the workforce have outperformed their peers, improved productivity and increased innovation while enhancing their business’ reputation.”
Daignault adds, “people with disabilities are capable, creative, and eager to work, adding value, promoting teamwork, and spreading joy to employees and customers.”
The October 22 Library workshop is “a great first step in opening doors of opportunity for businesses and potential employees with disabilities who will enhance the vibe in any place of business.”
Everyone has fun at Club 203’s Thanksgiving party.
Employment is not the only area in which Westport addresses the needs and opportunities of people with disabilities.
Non-profits like CLASP, STAR Lighting the Way and Abilis provide assistance for a wide range of ages.
The Westport Weston Family YMCA and Westport Little League Challenger program offer recreational programs.
Club203 is Westport’s social club for people with disabilities. Their monthly events are enthusiastically supported by many businesses and non-profits.
There is housing at, among other sites, a recently converted home on Riverside Avenue, and transportation alternatives through the Westport Transit District.
Of course, there is also the town’s Commission on People with Disabilities. For more information, click here or call the Department of Human Services: 203-341-1050.
