Stateline just published an excellent article about states' efforts to employ more people with disabilities.  Not only did it cite South Dakota as a leader in this effort, it offered perspectives from Governor Dennis Daugaard and the Department of Human Secretary Gloria Pearson and also mentioned the, "Ability for Hire" campaign!

2015 National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) Events

The National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is a nationwide campaign held throughout the month of October that raises awareness about disability employment issues and celebrates the contributions of America’s workers with disabilities, past and present.  Not only does it recognize the contributions of people with disabilities this event also recognizes employers or businesses who employ people with disabilities.  The theme for this year is, "My Disability is One Part of Who I am." 

In fact, Governor Dennis Daugaard has proclaimed that October be a time where all citizens of South Dakota observe the month by hosting and supporting initiatives and activities supporting and promote the employment opportunities for people with disabilities.  Therefore, there are several communities throughout the state that host NDEAM events throughout the month.  To learn more about events located nearest you please read below for further details and registration information.

Awards recognize contributions to employment of South Dakotans with disabilities

PIERRE, S.D. – Gov. Dennis Daugaard presented awards Sept. 3 to South Dakota businesses and workers who have contributed the most in 2015 to the employment of people with disabilities. The 2015 Governor’s Awards ceremony was co-sponsored by South Dakota’s Board of Vocational Rehabilitation, Board of Service to the Blind and Visually Impaired, the Statewide Independent Living Council and the Department of Human Services.

Excellent front-page article from the Rapid City Journal on Governor Dennis Daugaard's, and the state's efforts on promoting the benefits of employing more individuals with disabilities.