October Will Celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month

OKLAHOMA CITY - Programs offered through the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services made it possible for more than 1,100 Oklahomans with disabilities to find work last year.

Now, DRS commemorates National Disability Employment Awareness Month, held annually each October.

This year’s theme is “Celebrating Value and Talent.”

“It’s always a time to celebrate when someone finds employment,” DRS Executive Director Sterling Zearley said. “But individuals with a disability often face barriers when it comes to finding a job. So, during this month, and really all year long, we want employers to know hiring someone with a disability can be one of the best decisions they make.”

DRS’ training programs create dependable, job-ready clients who are ready to build a career, he added.

“People with disabilities are some of the most hard-working and loyal people I have encountered,” Zearley said. “It’s hard to find a more career-driven group of individuals. They want to work and we are here to help them succeed.”

DRS services include career counseling, diagnosis and treatment of physical and mental disabilities, education and training, assistive technology and job placement – all intended to improve future employment outcomes.

Clients must have a physical or mental disability that is a substantial barrier to employment to qualify for services. They must be able to benefit from vocational rehabilitation services in ways that lead to finding or maintaining employment.

On average, DRS clients who became employed in 2025 earned $30,852 in annual wages and paid $4,628 in annual taxes. VR and SBVI staff served 13,765 Oklahomans with disabilities.

DRS also helps Oklahoma employers hire and train qualified workers through VR and SBVI offices and the agency’s Business Services Program. Every county in the state is served by these programs.

DRS staff work with employers to set up on-the-job training experiences for clients and may cover a portion of their salaries for a specified time. The only requirement is that the business must have a vacant position that can be filled by the trained individual upon completion of the experience.

In addition, federal Work Opportunity Tax Credits provide financial incentives that reduce tax liabilities for businesses employing people with disabilities.

Those facing barriers to employment due to a disability can apply for services by phoning 800-487-4042 or visit www.okdrs.gov for more information. Phone 800-845-8476 for information on DRS’ employment programs.

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