Cornerstone Celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Dear Cornerstone Community Members:

October was National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) Cornerstone has been helping individuals with mental health and substance use disorders find, secure, and maintain meaningful employment for over 50 years. As the largest supported employment program in Maryland, we empower individuals aged 16 and up to identify and achieve their job goals.

The statistics are striking: In August, the Department of Labor reported that the employment rate for individuals aged 16–64 with disabilities ranged between 36% and 40%, with an unemployment rate of 9%. In contrast, individuals without disabilities had an employment rate of 75% and an unemployment rate of 4.3%. Cornerstone consistently outperforms these national averages, boasting an employment rate of over 60% for individuals with disabilities—nearly double the national average.

At Cornerstone, we believe that employment is not just about earning a paycheck—it’s a critical component of recovery. A job provides meaning, fosters connection, and instills a sense of purpose. Employment can help individuals build confidence, combat social isolation, and reduce anxiety. For many, having a job serves as a powerful motivator—whether it’s to get out of bed, take better care of themselves, or address challenges like substance use.

The theme for this year’s NDEAM was “Access to Good Jobs for All”, emphasizing that meaningful employment opportunities should be available to everyone. Cornerstone’s employment program supports this mission by working one-on-one with clients to identify their career aspirations. We assist with job searches, applications, resume writing, and interview preparation. Once a client is employed, we provide ongoing job coaching and support, including on-site assistance if needed. If a client chooses to disclose their disability to their employer, we engage with the employer to foster a collaborative relationship.

One of the hallmarks of our program is our approach: we treat employers as equal partners, working alongside the client and the employment specialist to ensure success. Employers benefit, too. Hiring individuals with disabilities comes with advantages like tax credits, increased productivity, and higher overall job satisfaction. Many employers who work with Cornerstone report that our job coaching and collaborative approach make them better managers and enhance their workplace culture.

“Access to Good Jobs for All” isn’t just about benefiting individuals—it’s about building stronger, more inclusive communities where everyone can thrive.