Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is a time to celebrate the many and varied contributions of America's workers with disabilities.
Janel Grossinger is the third generation of her family who is deaf. Having grown up in a home with a parent and a sibling born with the same hearing loss, Janel raised her own family in a primarily deaf lifestyle conversing in America Sign Language along with her husband, who is also deaf. It wasn’t until Janel accepted a position at U.S. Department of Education that she realized just how deaf she really was.
Growing up, there was always something a little different about Sam. He struggled to cope in social environments and was considered different by teachers and peers. Though his mother was diligent in seeking the help he needed, as he grew older and began experiencing life on his own things spiraled out of control. It was when he reached rock bottom, losing everything and everyone that mattered to him, that Sam sought the help he needed. Now at age 49, he confidently confesses that he is living his best life. More
If you ever visit Union Kitchen, be sure to wear your running shoes. Darren Barbour will guide you at whirlwind speed through prep areas, refrigerated spaces, up and down stairs explaining the ins and outs of his duties as Kitchen Manager. His boundless energy represents incredible enthusiasm and immense gratitude for his colleagues at the food incubator; sentiments which colleagues also feel toward Darren. Around every corner, at most turns you’re apt to hear “Darren is the best.” More
Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP)