This piece is sponsored by DakotAbilities.
When Stephen M. arrives at his job each day at the GreatLIFE at Avera McKennan Fitness Center, he dives right into the task checklist he has created for himself.
“Stephen is always reliable and can be seen cleaning around the facility, talking with our members and brightening their day,” said Jared Fox, general manager at GreatLIFE Golf & Fitness. “He has his own checklist that he completes each day while working with our fitness support team.”
This October marks the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, a time to celebrate the vital contributions of people with disabilities to America’s workforce.
Employment and volunteer opportunities contribute to the growth of DakotAbilities’ Meaningful Day program, which began several years ago as a vocational initiative and has since expanded to include creative expression, nutrition, fitness, life skills, volunteer opportunities and individualized employment support.
“The level of support I provide is guided by each person’s goals and unique needs,” said Megan Anderson, a resource support specialist at DakotAbilities. “I’m here to help them navigate the path to employment, and it’s been wonderful to see Stephen and Ashley find the right fit at GreatLIFE.”
For Stephen, his job means much more than earning a paycheck. He thrives on connecting with people and bringing joy to others.
“Having this job makes me feel a lot happier,” he said. “Every day, I put in my best effort at work, and it makes me feel good about myself.”
Ashley C., another person supported by DakotAbilities who is employed at the GreatLIFE at Avera McKennan Fitness Center, also takes pride in her work. She enjoys the fun, team-oriented environment, flexible hours and the sense of accomplishment her job brings.
“It makes me feel important and gives me a sense of pride in my accomplishments,” Ashley said.
Stephen and Ashley’s enthusiasm underscores how inclusive employment benefits not only employees but also workplace culture. With the Sioux Falls metro unemployment rate trending below the national average, hovering around 2 percent, businesses that welcome nontraditional candidates can gain dependable, motivated team members who strengthen their operations.
“There’s a misconception that employees with disabilities cost businesses more due to accommodations,” said Vicki Stewart, executive director of Employment Disability Resources. “In reality, most people with disabilities don’t need accommodations at all, and when they do, they typically cost less than $300.”
“At GreatLIFE, we didn’t have to make many accommodations for Ashley and Stephen,” Fox added. “They’re fantastic team members who greet our members warmly and make sure everyone is taken care of. I’ve known them for almost a year now, and it’s been a joy to work with them and watch them grow.”
Meaningful employment can be life-changing, offering a sense of belonging, confidence and independence, especially for people with disabilities. Stephen and Ashley’s experiences reflect what’s possible when people are given the chance to contribute their skills and passions.
The best roles for people with disabilities depend on individual interests and talents. The key is finding the right fit as GreatLIFE has done by fostering a workplace where employees like Stephen and Ashley can succeed and feel valued.
Celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month means seeing people’s abilities and building inclusive, welcoming workplaces. “Seeing Ability” is one of DakotAbilities’ six core values, and it’s a win for everyone when people find meaningful employment and when businesses and communities recognize the value of a diverse workforce.
For information, visit dakotabilities.org.
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