NEW LEXINGTON — The Perry County Board of Developmental Disabilities is using October 2026 to observe National Disability Employment Awareness Month, a nationwide effort to recognize workers with disabilities and encourage inclusive hiring. The board says its 2026 theme highlights values and talents.
According to the agency, its employment navigation services serve youth ages 14 and older as they move toward adulthood. The Employment Navigator works with school districts, providers, employment agencies and businesses to help participants explore job interests and find community employment. PCBDD reports that 33 Perry County residents are employed, 19 are volunteering and 15 are looking for work.
For the month, PCBDD says it is partnering with Café Grind in New Lexington, Beans and Brew in Crooksville and General Assembly in Somerset to offer custom drinks tied to the awareness campaign. The board also plans to recognize local employers and community partners that create opportunities for people with disabilities.
Superintendent Caley Boyden said the theme reflects what the agency sees locally and encouraged the community to keep building workplaces where people feel valued, included and able to succeed. PCBDD said it will share success stories and business connections through Facebook during October.