National Disability Employment Awareness Month Frequently Asked Questions

October 04, 2022

#NDEAM - smiling employees of MySDS and Employment Services clients
  1. What is NDEAM? 

    National Disability Employment Awareness Month     (NDEAM) was established to increase awareness of the positive outcomes of hiring people with disabilities. It’s an opportunity for employment service providers and community organizations to celebrate the tremendous contributions people with disabilities make to our workplaces and communities, and to educate employers and the public about the importance of disability-inclusive employment.

    In Canada, NDEAM is observed in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Ontario, Quebec, and Saskatchewan. NDEAM is also celebrated in the United States in October.

  2. Why is NDEAM necessary? 

    According to The Canadian Association for Support Employment (CASE), “Despite the considerable efforts that have been made to diversify the Canadian labour force, Statistics Canada reports that in 2017, 3.7 million working-age Canadians identified as having a disability and that only three in five (59%) were employed1.” The COVID-19 pandemic has substantially intensified the situation. Currently, approximately one million Canadian job seekers experiencing disability are unemployed or underemployed2. Given current workforce shortages, Canadian employers coast to coast need the skills, education, and experience of this untapped talent resource. 

  3. How does March of Dimes Canada support inclusive hiring? 

    March of Dimes Canada Employment Services exists to ensure that people with disabilities find and keep meaningful jobs. We are Canada’s leader in matching people who have disabilities with employers seeking qualified candidates.  

    Employment Services has 20 offices across Canada. Last year, our team worked with more than 14,000 clients across various programs, from employment support, skills assessment, and passport support. This includes our work on behalf of government departments and agencies delivering a wide range of federal, provincial, and municipal employment programs. We also supported more than 1,600 job placements or positive outcomes across Canada. Whether that meant helping a client explore their goals and ambitions, assessing their needs and skills, finding employment, or succeeding on the job, we were with them as they moved towards financial security through employment. 

    We also offer a comprehensive suite of services that help employers find the best candidates for their organizations — no matter the size of their business or the type of opportunity. 

    Learn more about the programs and services we offer. 

    If you interested in advancing the culture of inclusive hiring and create a dynamic and equitable workplace, we want to partner with you! Please fill out this employer form to get started. 

  4. What’s the best way to find out how Employment Services can support me to find a job or recruit employees? 

    If you are interested in participating in one of our tech-based programs — or would like to learn more about our other programs and services — please fill out this job seeker form and a member of our team will contact you to learn about your goals and needs.
     
  5. I need advice, training and support to use assistive technologies on my mobile phone or tablet. How can I apply to receive help through Tech for GoodTM? 

    You can apply by completing this form on the TELUS website. If you need assistance completing the form, please contact Jamie Suderman, Tech for Good’s Program Manager at jsuderman@marchofdimes.ca or 647-286-0752 

  6. How can I find out if I qualify to apply for a digital device through the Tech for Impact Fund? 

    Learn who is eligible to apply and more about the program here. The fall deadline for applications is Friday, October 28. 
 


<< Back to all Articles.