Gov. Mills Proclaims October 2026 as Disability Employment Awareness Month

October 1, 2026

For Immediate Release: Oct. 1, 2026

Media Contact: Autumn Mahoney, Communications Specialist [email protected]

AUGUSTA - Gov. Janet T. Mills has proclaimed October 2026 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM).

October 2026 marks the 81st anniversary of NDEAM. Gov. Mills' proclamation recognizes the contributions of people with disabilities to Maine's workplaces, communities and economy and calls on employers, schools, higher education institutions and community organizations to promote access to good, in-demand jobs and career pathways, including registered apprenticeship.

"At a time when employers are searching for workers, talented Maine people with disabilities are ready and willing to participate in the workforce," said Jennifer Kimble, the chair of Maine's Commission on Disability and Employment. "Expanding recruitment and retention strategies that recognize the value of including workers with disabilities as benefits businesses, communities, and the individuals whose talents are too often underutilized."

The Commission on Disability and Employment was established by the legislature in 1997 and promotes collaboration with the public and private sectors to increase awareness and influence policy related to employment for people with disabilities. Its members envision a Maine workforce that includes all people with disabilities employed in jobs that meet both their economic and personal needs.

"National Disability Employment Awareness Month is an opportunity to recognize the skills, talents and contributions of Mainers with disabilities and to continue working toward workplaces where everyone has the opportunity to contribute and succeed," said Maine Department of Labor Commissioner Laura Fortman. "Maine's workforce needs every person who wants to work, and the Department of Labor and our partners are committed to helping people with disabilities pursue meaningful careers while helping employers connect with talented workers."

NDEAM has been observed nationally since 1945. The observance recognizes the contributions of people with disabilities and promotes employment opportunities and career pathways.

Organizations across Maine and nationally are offering events, trainings and other activities throughout October. A selection is listed below and is found atmaine.gov/labor/ndeam.

The Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) is part of the Maine Department of Labor (MDOL) and works to bring about full access to employment, independence and community integration for people with disabilities. BRS helps clients find and keep employment through career exploration, training, job placement, workplace accommodations, job coaching, retention and return-to-work services.

BRS includes the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), the Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired (DBVI), and the Division for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing and Late Deafened (DDHHLD).

For young people with disabilities, BRS provides transition services that can help students explore careers, develop employment goals and gain work-based experience. Youth and other jobseekers can participate in activities such as job tours, interviews, job shadows, paid work experiences including registered pre-apprenticeships and apprenticeships, and other on-the-job training.

Employers interested in recruiting, hiring or retaining workers with disabilities can work with BRS for no-cost services, including recruitment assistance, workplace accommodations, job coaching, retention and return-to-work services, and disability awareness training.

MDOL provides equal opportunity in employment and programs. Auxiliary aids and services are available to people with disabilities upon request.

For more information about employment services for people with disabilities, visit the Maine Department of Labor's Bureau of Rehabilitation Services.