Champions Spotlight

October 2025 marked the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a national recognition of the positive impact of hiring individuals of differing abilities and promoting an inclusive workforce.

DARS’ business services unit celebrated NDEAM by honoring the individuals, employers, schools, and community organizations that are advancing disability employment across Virginia. The event highlighted how collaboration between DARS, businesses, and community partners opens doors to meaningful careers for Virginians with disabilities.

DARS’ annual Champions of Disability Employment event was held virtually on Oct. 15, 2025, recognizing the talents, efforts and partnerships that have led to the successful employment of DARS candidates in 2025.

Community Partners

• Tech for Troops
• Virginia Career Works – Central Region
• Amherst County Public Schools
• Walgreens Ready Program

Businesses

• Carilion Clinic
• Richmond Electricians JATC
• Norfolk Public Schools Nutrition Department
• Amy’s Lush & Local

Participants

Individuals whose determination and success exemplify the impact of vocational rehabilitation, including new teachers, skilled trades apprentices, automotive technicians, and entrepreneurs.

• A band director hired at his former schools after receiving years of support and tuition assistance.
• A registered apprentice electrician who transitioned from part-time retail to a skilled trade career.
• A deaf automotive technician who trained at WWRC and secured a full-time state position.
• A small-business entrepreneur supported in developing a specialized service (sound bowl therapy).

Key Partner Outcomes

• Tech for Troops: Hosted 23 high school students; provided training, digital literacy, and employment pathways.
• Virginia Career Works -Central Region: Linked participants to internships, apprenticeships, and employment with local employers including CloudFit Software.
• Amherst County Public Schools: Strengthened transition services and work-based learning opportunities for students with disabilities.
• Walgreens Ready Program: Delivered structured retail training, individualized instruction, and multiple hires across regional stores.

Key Takeaways

• Inclusive employment works. Employers across industries—from healthcare and skilled trades to retail, schools, and small businesses—are hiring and valuing workers with disabilities.
• Partnerships drive opportunity. Collaboration among DARS, WWRC, schools, and workforce organizations creates access to internships, apprenticeships, and long-term careers.
• Training and support matter. Programs like WWRC’s manufacturing technology training and the Pathways Career programs help participants earn credentials, build skills, and secure competitive employment.
• Participant success stories show the power of persistence and support. Each honoree demonstrated that when talent is matched with the right resources, individuals achieve independence, stability, and professional growth.