October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time to recognize the contributions of people with disabilities to America's workplaces and the importance of expanding access to meaningful employment.
The 2026 NDEAM theme, “Celebrating Value and Talent,” reflects something ERI sees every day: people with disabilities bring skills, experience, and perspectives that strengthen our workplaces and communities.
At Employment Resources, Inc. (ERI), disability and employment are at the heart of what we do. For more than 35 years, we've worked alongside people with disabilities, employers, and community partners to help people pursue employment goals, understand how work may affect their benefits, and build more accessible and inclusive workplaces.
“Too often, people with disabilities are defined by what others assume they can’t do. At ERI, we see what happens when people are recognized for their strengths, talents, and goals — and have opportunities to contribute and succeed.”
— Theresa Kulow, Deputy Director, Employment Resources, Inc.
Throughout October, we're highlighting stories, tools, and resources that reflect different parts of that work.
Pursuing Meaningful Employment
What does someone want from work and what do they picture for their future?
Start with What Matters: What Makes a Good Job for You shares stories from ERI employment and benefits specialists about people pursuing goals ranging from returning to a longtime career to taking the first step toward something entirely new.
Working and Disability Benefits
Working more, earning more, or pursuing a new job can raise questions for people who receive Social Security disability benefits.
Want to Grow Your Career While Receiving Disability Benefits? Ticket to Work Can Help! explains how Social Security's Ticket to Work program connects eligible people with employment services and support to help them prepare for, find, and keep a job as they work toward their career goals.
Resources for Wisconsin Employers
Employers also have an important role in creating workplaces where people with disabilities can contribute and succeed.
People with Disabilities in the Workforce: A Guide for Wisconsin Employers offers practical steps employers can take to improve disability hiring and retention, address workplace barriers, and connect employees with specialized resources.
Support ERI During NDEAM
Employment opportunities can change lives. ERI works throughout Wisconsin to help people with disabilities pursue employment, understand their benefits, and work toward greater financial security.
This National Disability Employment Awareness Month, help strengthen a Wisconsin workforce where people with disabilities have opportunities to work, grow, and succeed.
About ERI
Employment Resources, Inc. is a Wisconsin nonprofit that has provided services in disability employment, benefits counseling, workforce development and related areas since 1990.
Content Reviewed by:
Theresa Kulow, Deputy Director | Employment Resources, Inc. (ERI)
Last reviewed: October 2026
Related Resources
