Each October during National Disability Employment Awareness Month 
(NDEAM), IBVI makes an extra effort to raise awareness, share resources, and highlight workers who are blind or visually impaired. It’s our way of helping promote NDEAM’s mission of “celebrating the value and talent workers with disabilities add to America’s workplaces and economy.”
With a history tracing back to 1945, NDEAM was created to celebrate the contributions of America’s workers with disabilities, while showcasing supportive, inclusive employment policies and practices that benefit employers and employees.
Empowering Workers Together
NDEAM’s purpose is driven by a “commitment to ensuring disabled workers have access to good jobs, every month of every year.” That’s the spirit behind this year’s official theme: “Access to Good Jobs for All.”
Similarly, as a part of our mission at IBVI, we are passionate about improving the quality of work and employment opportunities for people who are blind or visually impaired. We care about them having fulfilling lives and work hard to get them the support they need.
This is especially important because today, 70% of working-age adults reporting significant vision loss are currently unemployed. As a result, 30% of this population is reported as living below the poverty line. In raising awareness, we hope to see each of these individuals find meaningful employment that will lead to full community participation, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency.
Stronger Communities Through Diverse Abilities
This staggering unemployment rate for workers who are blind or visually impaired presents numerous challenges, not only for the individuals but also for our communities as a whole.
At minimum, these individuals miss out on being part of a dynamic, fulfilling workplace and as a result, they can’t recognize or showcase their abilities. Further, without employment, they lose the chance to grow in a career path that could give them a sense of purpose. Lastly, they aren’t given the opportunity to develop valuable professional relationships with others, further isolating them from the broader community.
Your support matters. People who are blind or visually impaired have proven that they’re loyal, hardworking and resourceful. With the right tools, training, and technology, they can succeed in a variety of roles. This October, we encourage everyone to start a conversation about disability employment at their workplace, and say yes to advancing access and equity for members of the disabled workforce.
Industries for the Blind and Visually Impaired (IBVI) is always looking for amazing people to join our team! Our employees inspire us with their pride, passion, and commitment to excellence. For more information, or to view our current employment opportunities, check out our “careers” page here.
