Annapolis, MD (October 1, 2026) - The Anne Arundel County Department of Aging and Disabilities today announced its participation in National Disability Employment Awareness Month, an annual awareness campaign that takes place each October. The purpose of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is to educate and bring awareness about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America's workers with disabilities. The theme for NDEAM 2026, "Celebrating Value and Talent," carries the spirit of last year's celebration honoring America's 250th birthday and recognizes the skills and contributions Americans with disabilities add to the nation’s workplaces, communities, and economy.
“Each year, National Disability Employment Awareness Month brings needed focus to the power of an inclusive workforce,” said County Executive Steuart Pittman. “In our ongoing effort to make Anne Arundel County the Best Place For All, we recognize that our community is strongest when everyone has a supportive, accessible work environment.”
The history of National Disability Employment Awareness Month traces back to 1945 when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October each year "National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week." In 1962, the word "physically" was removed to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of abilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
"National Disability Employment Awareness Month reminds us how much richer our workplaces and communities are thanks to the talents of people with disabilities,” said Karrisa Kelly, Director of the Department of Aging and Disabilities. "Their talents and hard work enrich our economy, workplaces, and communities. Our department remains committed to opening doors and removing barriers by offering resources, support, and accessible programs that help individuals live independently and reach their full potential."
Good jobs change lives, and all workers deserve the opportunity to prepare for, obtain, and succeed in them. The Department of Aging and Disabilities strives to educate the community on disability employment issues and is committed to inclusive work culture. The Office of Equity and Human Rights has also created a webpage (National Disability Employment Awareness Month | Anne Arundel County Government) and developed a list of resources for leaders to increase awareness of disability issues. Employers and employees in all industries can learn more about how to participate in National Disability Employment Awareness Month and ways they can promote its messages — during October and throughout the year — by visiting www.dol.gov/NDEAM
The Commission on Disability Issues and the Department of Aging and Disabilities will celebrate Disability Awareness Day on Tuesday, October 20, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Severn Senior Activity Center located at 1160 Reece Road, Severn, MD 21144. Disability Awareness Day is an opportunity to publicly acknowledge and honor the many contributions individuals with disabilities make to our community every day. During the event, the Department of Aging and Disabilities’ Easy Travel Access (ETA) Rides-On-Demand Program will give away a limited number of Uber gift cards to eligible attendees. To learn more about eligibility, visit www.aacounty.org/transportation-assistance. The event is free and open to the public.
For more information about this event or the Anne Arundel County Department of Aging and Disabilities, contact the ADA Office at 410-222-4383. Anyone needing event accommodations should contact that office by phone or email agmart11@aacounty.org at least seven days in advance of the event. Individuals who use Maryland Relay may dial 7-1-1 for assistance. All materials are available in an alternative format upon request.