National Disability Employment Awareness Month: How PCIL Helped Morgan Find Her Voice and a New Job Through DVRS Programs

Every October, we celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)—a time to recognize the contributions of workers with disabilities and highlight the importance of inclusive workplaces. 

This observance began in 1945 as “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.” Over the decades, it grew to include all people with disabilities, and in 1988, it became the month-long campaign we know today. 

The purpose remains the same: to shine a light on both the abilities and challenges of workers with disabilities, while encouraging businesses, communities, and service providers to create fair opportunities for all. 

The need is clear. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, only 22% of working-age people with disabilities are employed, compared to nearly 65% of those without disabilities. In New Jersey, state data shows that nearly half of working-age residents with disabilities did not work—evidence of the real unmet demand for employment supports. 

At the Progressive Center for Independent Living (PCIL), we’re working to close that gap right here in Mercer and Hunterdon County, NJ. Our programs help people with disabilities gain skills, confidence, and independence—whether that’s learning how to advocate for themselves, preparing for a new job, or even taking driving lessons to open new doors. 

For one Hunterdon County resident, Morgan, these services didn’t just lead to a better job—they gave her back her confidence. 

Struggling to Be Heard 

Morgan has always enjoyed working with people. At her retail job, she rang up purchases, organized merchandise, and helped keep the store in order. But the hours weren’t there. Some weeks she worked only four hours, other weeks none at all. 

The lack of financial stability was stressful on Morgan. More than that, it made her feel invisible. 

“I realized it was time I learned to advocate for myself when I couldn’t even afford to buy the things I needed,” Morgan said. “I kept asking for more hours, but I wasn’t being valued or respected.” 

Her confidence was slipping. She wanted more for herself, but didn’t know how to make it happen. On the advice of her mother, Morgan reached out to the Progressive Center for Independent Living—and that choice changed everything. 

Finding Her Voice 

At PCIL, Morgan was connected with Independent Living Specialist, Bette Ann. From the beginning, Bette Ann saw Morgan’s potential. Together, they set goals to help her gain the skills and confidence she needed to move forward. 

The first focus was self-advocacy. Through role-playing exercises, Morgan practiced conversations she wanted to have with her supervisor—asking for hours, explaining her needs, and standing her ground with respect. At first, she hesitated. But little by little, her voice grew stronger. 

“Eventually Morgan was texting her supervisor independently,” Bette Ann recalled. “Her transformation from timid and quiet to confident and assertive was incredible. She just needed someone to believe in her—and the tools to practice.” 

Morgan also worked on practical skills through PCIL’s partnership with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS). She brushed up on counting change and joined PCIL’s peer groups and recreation activities—experiences that boosted her confidence and gave her new opportunities to connect with others. Each small step was a building block toward independence. 

Morgan posing with Bette Ann of Hunderdon, NJ.

A Fresh Start Through DVRS

Even with her progress, Morgan’s old job never gave her the hours she needed. With encouragement from PCIL, she made the brave decision to start fresh and began searching for a new job. 

Through DVRS’s a la carte services Morgan worked with Bette Ann and Renee Pfaff to practice mock interviews. The job search wasn’t easy—applications and interviews often ended in rejection—but Morgan refused to give up.

Finally, her persistence paid off. A new retail store welcomed her with steady hours and a supportive environment. 

“When I got the job, it felt amazing,” Morgan said. “I finally felt independent again. I wasn’t just sitting at home watching TV. I was being productive, enjoying my coworkers, and making money. It gave me my life back.” 

For Morgan, work isn’t just about a paycheck—it’s about freedom, dignity, and the ability to plan for her future.

“Having a job means everything,” she said. “It allows me to buy gifts for my parents, plan for the future, and feel secure in who I am.” 

And Morgan isn’t stopping here. She’s now in the process of getting enrolled in PCIL’s Drive-Ability program to learn how to drive—another step toward the independence she values so much. 

Why Morgan’s Story Matters 

Morgan’s journey shows what’s possible when people with disabilities are given the right tools and encouragement. At PCIL, we don’t just prepare people for the workplace—we prepare them for life. With the right support, people can discover their strengths, advocate for themselves, and build independence. 

“PCIL doesn’t just prepare people for the workplace,” said Bette Ann. “We prepare people for life. With the right tools, support, and belief in their potential, anything is possible.” 

A Message for National Disability Employment Awareness Month 

Morgan’s advice to others with disabilities who feel nervous about speaking up at work is simple but powerful: 

“Don’t be afraid. Once you know who you are and what you need, you can speak up for yourself. It will be OK.” 

As we mark National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Morgan’s story is a reminder that when people with disabilities have access to opportunity, resources, and encouragement, they can thrive. 

At PCIL, we believe that employment is more than a job—it’s the foundation for independence, dignity, and inclusion in our communities. 

👉 Want to learn more about how PCIL can help with employment, independent living, and transition services in Mercer and Hunterdon County, NJ? Visit www.pcil.org.