October marks National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), and Pensacola is home to one of the country’s largest private employers of people with disabilities – Global Connections to Employment (GCE). More than 300 team members with disabilities work at GCE contracts from Escambia to Walton County, including at Naval Air Station Pensacola and Eglin Air Force Base. This October will include NDEAM celebrations for GCE team members, whose roles include food services, facilities maintenance, custodial services, business support and information technology services.

This year’s NDEAM theme, “Access to Good Jobs for All,” highlights the importance of ensuring that people with disabilities have equal opportunities to secure meaningful employment. NDEAM is a time to recognize the valuable contributions of workers with disabilities and the need to break down barriers to employment. Promoting accessible hiring practices and creating inclusive work environments can ensure that everyone has access to good jobs, fostering a workforce where all individuals can thrive and succeed.

The rate of people with disabilities in the labor market is at an all-time high of 24.2%, according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, the unemployment rate for people with disabilities continues to be more than double the rate for those without disabilities. This highlights a significant gap in opportunities for both organizations looking for workers and for individuals seeking jobs.

“Employees with disabilities often have lower absenteeism and higher retention rates, reducing the costs associated with turnover, such as hiring and training new employees,” said Dwight Davis, president of GCE. “These are team members who contribute positively to the workplace environment and overall performance of organizations. Plus, demonstrating a commitment to diversity and inclusion can enhance a company’s reputation and brand loyalty among consumers.”

Studies show that companies practicing disability inclusion had 1.6 times more revenue, 2.6 times the net income and double the profit. Managers and HR leaders have said in surveys that team members with disabilities perform the same as or better than their peers without disabilities.

“At Global Connections to Employment, our diverse and inclusive workforce is seen as the key to innovation, growth and engaging culture,” said Davis. “Beyond just filling positions, employing people with disabilities is a strategic decision that brings a multitude of benefits to an organization. Embracing an inclusive workforce can transform businesses while building a more prosperous and productive future.”

Since 1986, GCE has provided not only jobs, but training and support for people with disabilities, including war-wounded veterans. Today, GCE has more than 1,500 team members – including 1,000 with significant disabilities – at contract sites in 14 states plus Washington, D.C. Learn about GCE services at gce.org.