People Inc.Celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month
Oct 22, 2025
People Inc. has long been an advocate for vocational training and employment opportunities for people with varying needs and abilities. Since 1986, People Inc. has helped thousands of people train, prepare for, secure and maintain employment.
Each October, we recognize National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) and the work of many partner organizations that celebrate the talents and abilities of the people served in supported employment programs. This year's theme is “Celebrating Value and Talent.”
People Inc. had the opportunity to acknowledge four area companies that have created a welcoming work environment so that people are able to learn, thrive and contribute to their communities.
Local Businesses Supporting I/DD Employment: Savers and Dash's
Savers Secondhand Used Clothing Thrift Store
Pictured (left to right): Bryan Devans, WNY Employment Consortium Co-Chair, Robert Heinle, Employment Specialist, People Inc, Sam Smith, Savers employee, Kristin Pautler, Senior Employment Supervisor, People Inc.
Savers, a national thrift store retailer, provided meaningful employment opportunities to four individuals at its Tonawanda location. Savers has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to inclusion and support for employees with disabilities.
Store Manager Stephen Crowley has been instrumental in creating a positive and accommodating work environment. He is flexible with scheduling, patient during interviews and training, and always ensures employees feel comfortable and valued. He has even held a position open while an individual obtained necessary identification, showing his dedication to their success. The people we serve enjoy working at Savers and describe the workplace as supportive, respectful, and welcoming.
“They know Stephen values their work and this inspires them to do their best at work, enabling them to really flourish. Stephen has created a positive work environment where our individuals have become friends with their coworkers, improving their social lives. They love working here and will continue to sharpen their skills gained from being employed at Savers to maintain their standing within the workforce,” said Kristen Pautler, employment supervisor.
Dash's Market
Pictured (left to right): Tony Pacella, Dash’s Store Manager, Frank Cammarata, Executive Director Erie County Office for People with Disabilities, Ryan Strach, Dash’s employee, Shelly Ralyea, WNY Employment Consortium Co-chair, Stephanie Mascio, Senior Employment Supervisor, People Inc.
Dash’s stands out for its advocacy and leadership in inclusion efforts, especially from Store Manager Tony Pacella.
Ryan Strache, a person supported through People Inc.’s supported employment program, has been a long-standing and dedicated employee in the produce department. When his position was at risk due to company-wide changes, Pacella recognized Ryan’s strong work ethic, attention to detail, and genuine passion for customer service. Rather than reassigning him to a different role, Pacella advocated internally for Ryan to remain in produce, successfully securing his position.
According to People Inc. Employment Supervisor Megan Logan, Pacella's willingness to go above and beyond exemplifies true inclusion in the workplace. Ryan’s enthusiasm and performance continue to thrive thanks to the supportive environment Dash’s has created.
“Tony reported to me that Ryan is one of the best employees he’s ever had, and he would gladly advocate for him time and time again,” said Logan.
Local Businesses Supporting Deaf Employees: Wegman's and Hampton Inn
The luncheon also recognized two local businesses who work with People Inc.’s deaf access services, highlighting the need for continued equity in employment.
Wegman's
Wegman's has hired five people we serve across four of their locations.
“Wegman’s has done a tremendous job hiring a total of five Deaf people from People Inc.’s deaf access programs to join their team. They have gone above and beyond on requesting interpreting services and providing access and opportunities for Deaf employees,” said Andrea Russell, employment specialist at People Inc.
The Wegman’s stores these employees work at include the Orchard Park, Buffalo, Depew and Amherst locations.
Hampton Inn
Hampton Inn has proven to be an outstanding employer by creating a welcoming and inclusive work environment for everyone. Through their partnership with People Inc.'s supported employment program, they have hired four people, including some who are Deaf or hard of hearing.
Specifically, the Hampton Inn locations in Amherst and Williamsville have taken notable steps for inclusion by hiring deaf refugees.
“Their teams have gone above and beyond to provide accommodations and foster communication strategies that allow Deaf employees to thrive,” said Russell.
A particularly inspiring example is a Deaf person who was given the opportunity to work her first job ever at one of the Hampton Inn locations. This milestone not only marked a significant personal achievement for her but also highlighted Hampton Inn's dedication to creating first-time opportunities for those who may face barriers to employment.
Whether it's job preparation, obtaining a job, or maintaining stable employment, People Inc. offers a range of services to help you find the right job for you.