Celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month
In 1988, the United States Congress declared October National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), which focuses on the disabilities community’s employment needs, while celebrating the economic contributions of employed men and women with disabilities. At Tierra, we are dedicated to empowering people with disabilities to pursue their individual career paths and ultimately become valued, prominent members of our workforce.
Today, we introduce you to Theresa Francis, who recently obtained a paid internship with one of our community partners, Danny’s Farm.
In addition to working with animals, which is Theresa’s primary passion, she is a guest services team member. You’ll meet Theresa at the entrance of the farm, where she takes admission tickets, assists visitors with signing waivers, and introduces farm-goers of all ages to the animals at Danny’s Farm. Theresa’s extensive knowledge of horses, goats, and other farm animals comes from her years of working at Tierra’s farm, volunteering with the rabbits at East Valley Animal Shelter, and volunteering at Perry’s Place, a rescue center for cats.
Program Director Lelani Dixon shares, “Our goal at Tierra is to match an individual with his or her dream job, so Theresa’s paid internship is a match made in heaven and a giant step toward paid employment and independence. We’re so proud of, Theresa!”Support Tierra and join a movement dedicated to empowering people with developmental disabilities through Workforce Development, College to Career, and Careers in the Arts.
Stories like Theresa’s are the reason we celebrate NDEAM, and pay tribute to the accomplishments of people with disabilities, as they play a significant role in keeping our nation’s economy strong. Support Tierra and join a movement dedicated to empowering people with developmental disabilities through Workforce Development, College to Career, and Careers in the Arts.