Mercer DD

CELINA, Ohio — Today Mercer County Board of Developmental Disabilities (Mercer DD) announced its participation in National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), an annual awareness campaign that takes place each October. The purpose of National Disability Employment Awareness Month is to educate about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America's workers with disabilities. This year's theme is "Celebrating Value and Talent."

Mercer DD recognized four individuals this year, by spotlighting their employment and employers. Those being acknowledged include: Kaelin Overman, Fort Recovery, employed at The Gardens of Celina; Ramsey Leverette, Fort Recovery, employed at The Spiritual Center of Maria Stein; Camille Tebbe, Maria Stein, employed at The Minster McDonald’s; and Diane Schwieterman, Maria Stein, employed at Bright Future Daycare in St. Henry.

Many employers who take the step to hire individuals with disabilities quickly discover the unique strengths they bring. Not only a strong work ethic, but a boost in workplace morale. Robin Goettemoeller, Coordinator at the Retreat Center of Maria Stein and Montezuma, has seen firsthand how individuals with disabilities enrich the workplace. She commends her employee, Ramsey Leverette for the constant joy, grace, and patience she brings to herself and the staff, exemplifying the value that inclusion adds. “You shouldn’t assume that they have limitations just because someone is on the [Autism] Spectrum,” said Robin Goettemoeller. “It doesn’t mean they don’t have value and can’t contribute back to the community,” she continued.

“We are very excited to showcase our individuals that are employed during October,” stated Shawn Thieman, Superintendent of Mercer DD. “Through collaboration and inclusive thinking, we want to continue to spread the important message that all perspectives are valued, including those of individuals with disabilities. We hope these efforts will result in more success stories such as Kaelin, Ramsey, Camille, and Diane,” he continued.

The history of NDEAM traces back to 1945, when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October each year "National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week." In 1962, the word "physically" was removed to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

“When we embrace the talents and abilities of all individuals, our entire community thrives. Inclusion strengthens us, empowers our workforce, and benefits everyone we serve,” said Thieman.

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Mercer DD serves approximately 500 eligible children and adults in Mercer County through a wide range of programming, supports and services. For additional information, visit mercerdd.org. To view the 2022 NDEAM stories, visit Mercer DD’s YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeJh87wtypChfD1ZWs_dEVA or follow Mercer DD on Facebook.

Employers and employees in all 

ll industries can learn more about NDEAM by visiting www.dol.gov/ndeam.