National Disability Employment Awareness Month

National Disability Employment Awareness Month
October 2005

HISTORY OF NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MONTH

Public Law 176, enacted by Congress in 1945, designated the first week in October as "National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week." In 1962, the word "physically" was removed from the week's name to recognize the employment needs of all Americans with disabilities. Congress, in 1988, expanded the week to a month and changed its name to "National Disability Employment Awareness Month." October has evolved as the kick-off month for year-round programs that highlight the abilities and skills of Americans with disabilities.

Awards Nominations Criteria

The National Disability Employment Awareness Awards have been established to recognize and honor people and organizations making significant contributions to the rehabilitation of persons with disabilities.
 
Private Sector Employer Award (Private Sector Employer of the Year) – This award recognizes private sector employers who have an exceptional record of hiring or facilitating employment of persons with disabilities and have made efforts towards creating a barrier free environment.
 
Public Sector Employer Award (Public Sector Employer of the Year) – This award recognizes public sector employers who have an exceptional record of hiring or facilitating employment of persons with disabilities and have made efforts towards creating a barrier free environment.
 
Employee of the Year – This award recognizes individuals who have distinguished themselves in their places of employment by contributing to the well being of persons with disabilities and have made efforts towards creating a barrier free environment.
 
Advocate of the Year – This award recognizes individuals who have advocated for persons with disabilities and have made efforts towards creating a barrier free environment.
 
Educator of the Year – This award recognizes individuals who have distinguished themselves in teaching of elementary, middle and high school students with disabilities.
 
Professional of the Year – This award recognizes individuals in any human services field who interacts with children or adults with disabilities.

Downloads

Award Letter Award Letter (34 KB)
Award Nomination Form Award Nomination Form (103 KB)