October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time to celebrate the positive contributions of workers with disabilities and promote inclusive employment policies and practices. This month, we invited Keshet adults to share their jobs and volunteer experiences. Over 15 people were excited to contribute, and their testimonials highlight the various ways that their work has empowered them and the world around them.
- Gaining Confidence
- “I like to unpack and put security tags on the luggage and unpack the clothes for my coworkers.” -Pouya, Marshall’s
- “I like greeting the students arriving for Hebrew School.” – Avi, BJBE
- “I like dusting to get things really clean.” – JW, Chicago Jewish Funeral Home
- Increased Independence
- “I take PACE to work on my own.” -Yosef, Mizrahi Grill
- “This year I will take an Uber independently to work.” -Avi, BJBE
- “I just got a job at Hebrew Theological College. I asked for this job on my own. When I get a paycheck, I will feel proud.” -Simcha, Hebrew Theological College
- Making a Difference
- “We like helping kids and cleaning up the toys.” – Huvi & Sam, Giggles Play
- “I want to work with little kids with disabilities.” – Tova, GADOL Team Member
- “I work at Highland Park Library. I put the hold books in order. I volunteer there. I have worked there for a while.” -Adam, Highland Park Library
- Building Relationships
- “I enjoy working with my coworkers.” – Julie, Mark Drug Medical Supply & Keshet Business Office
- “I like unpacking the boxes and hanging items.” – Estella, Ten Thousand Villages
- “I have worked at CBC for three years. I like my co-workers and having lunch.” – Doug, CBC Specialty Beverage
- Commitment & Longevity
- “I have worked there for 13 years. I helped open the store.” – Erin, Mariano’s
- “I have worked at my dad’s company for 9 years.” – Doug C., LYFE Kitchen
- “I love my routine and the people I work with.” – Mikey, CBC Specialty Beverage
- Sense of Pride
- “I can buy food with my paycheck. It feels great to have my own money.” – Doug, CBC Specialty Beverage
- “I like earning money and saving it.” – Ethan, Home Depot
- “Earning my own paycheck is very satisfying to me.” – Avi, BJBE
Work is core to Keshet’s mission to create a community of belonging. Whether through volunteer opportunities, jobs supported by Keshet or positions with outside entities, every role matters and contributes to this mission. What you do often defines who you are, and Keshet is committed to ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can define their own path to success.
