In this engaging interview, Peter Mendoza, a dedicated advocate for disability employment, shares his insights on the importance of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). Mendoza emphasizes the need for recognizing the contributions of individuals with disabilities in the workforce. He highlights the desire for equal pay, opportunities for promotion, and the right to choose their work environment. Mendoza also discusses the ongoing challenges faced by people with disabilities, including discrimination and underemployment, making this interview a must-watch for anyone interested in promoting inclusion and understanding the value of a diverse workforce:
The RISE Up program, developed by the National Retail Federation (NRF) Foundation, offers essential training and credentialing to equip individuals with foundational employability skills, enabling them to secure jobs and advance in the retail sector and beyond. In an exciting new initiative, the California Retailers Association has partnered with CPCIDD and Meristem to launch a pilot program tailored specifically for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Working together to make the NRF Foundation RISE Up curriculum accessible for the IDD community, our aim is to evaluate its effectiveness for our audience while maintaining fidelity to retail employer needs, and to provide participants with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive in the workforce, promoting inclusivity and diversity within the retail industry. Hear from one of the students as she shares her thoughts with both self-advocates and employers:
