Tag: employ the disabled

Celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month: Over 50 Years of Opportunity and Inclusion

Post author By Jack Allen
Post date October 9, 2025
No Comments on Celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month: Over 50 Years of Opportunity and Inclusion

Each October, we celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) — a time to recognize the contributions of workers with disabilities and to promote inclusive employment practices across all industries.

This year’s observance reminds us that inclusion works — not only for individuals with disabilities but for communities and businesses everywhere. When people of all abilities have access to meaningful work, everyone benefits. Diverse workplaces foster creativity, problem-solving, and compassion — values that strengthen both organizations and society as a whole.

At Mays Mission for the Handicapped, we have been putting these principles into action for over fifty years. Founded on the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, Mays Mission provides on-the-job training and employment for individuals with disabilities. Through these programs, participants gain valuable skills, experience, and confidence that help open doors to greater independence and success.

Hiring individuals with disabilities isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s a smart investment in talent, dedication, and perspective. People with disabilities bring unique strengths and experiences to the workplace, helping employers create environments that are more innovative and inclusive for all.

As we celebrate NDEAM, we encourage employers, community leaders, and individuals alike to recognize the value of a diverse workforce — and to take steps toward ensuring that everyone has a chance to contribute.

At Mays Mission, we’re proud to continue our work in building opportunities and changing lives. Together, we can make inclusion not just a goal, but a reality.

To learn more about our mission, programs, and how you can get involved, call us toll free: 888-503-7955, or locally at 501-362-7526, or email us at info@maysmission.org today. Thank you for your support!

Hire the disabled and let them into the workforce.

Tags ability not disability, disability advocacy, employ the disabled, mays mission, October Is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, on the job training, Over 50 Years

Programs

Making the Workplace More Inclusive for Individuals with Disabilities

Post author By Jack Allen
Post date September 22, 2025
No Comments on Making the Workplace More Inclusive for Individuals with Disabilities

Creating an inclusive workplace benefits everyone. At Mays Mission for the Handicapped, we often receive questions about how to best support individuals with disabilities on the job. The good news is that making your workplace more welcoming doesn’t have to be complicated—sometimes small actions make the biggest difference.

Here are a few simple but important guidelines to keep in mind:

Don’t make assumptions. If you’re unsure what to say, what terminology to use, or whether assistance is needed, the best approach is to ask the individual directly.
Remember that disabilities vary. A person with a disability may excel in many areas of life—never assume limitations across the board.
Offer help respectfully. Always ask before jumping in. Even if someone appears to be struggling, they may prefer to complete the task independently.
Remove barriers. Look around your workplace for potential obstacles that could impact mobility, vision, or hearing, and take steps to eliminate them.
Use people-first language. Say “person with a disability” rather than “disabled person.” Language shapes perception, and focusing on the person first emphasizes dignity and respect.
Highlight abilities. Shift the focus away from what someone cannot do and instead emphasize what they can do.

By applying these principles, you help foster an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute.

If you’d like more guidance, Mays Mission offers free brochures—Making Your Community More Accessible and The Americans With Disabilities Act—produced by our employees with disabilities. To request copies, call us, message us, or email info@maysmission.org. Together, we can create more inclusive workplaces and stronger communities.

Tags advocacy, disability advocate, Disability Empowerment, employ the disabled, Inclusive Workplace, interacting with the disabled, mays mission, on the job training

Programs

A new year

We are now a few weeks into this new year. Right now some good questions to ask might be “What did we accomplish last year? Are we better off in any way than we were 365 days ago? What can we do in this new year we have embarked upon to improve our lives and the way we live?” Better yet, what can we do to improve the lives of others, especially those with disabilities?

The dictionary describes an “advocate” as one who publicly supports or suggests an idea, development or way of doing something.

Here at Mays Mission, our primary goal is to aid and assist people with disabilities. Yes, putting to work those who may have difficulty finding gainful employment is one facet of our purpose yet there is so much more.

Public education regarding the abilities and capabilities of people with disabilities is of utmost importance. You see, through our various programs and direct mail, we have the opportunity to inform and educate the public throughout the country that given the opportunity, people with disabilities can become productive citizens.

We have seen scores of people with a variety of disabilities come and go here at Mays Mission while others have chosen to stay with us. It’s heartwarming to know that some have bought their own homes, learned to drive and purchased automobiles, while some have moved on to bigger and better opportunities. Seeing people succeed and become more independent where at one time hope seemed lost is an indescribable feeling.

We’ve set out goal; to aid and assist people with disabilities. Won’t you please join us? Email us at info@maysmission.org to learn more about our programs and see how you can be an advocate for people with disabilities this year. And your comments are always welcome in the comment section. Thanks!

Tags ability not disability, advocacy, disability advocacy, employ the disabled, mays mission, new year, on the job training

Programs

Change and Attitude

We are all brought into this world with our own unique set of circumstances. Some are born into wealth and prosperity while some are born into poverty; some short and some tall; some with a natural ability to excel in certain areas while others struggle to make the grade. Whatever the situation might be, no two individuals are alike.

As we meander through life’s intriguing journey, there usually comes a time when we all decide we are ready for a change. Whatever it might be, more likely than not, the change will not be instantaneous or easy.

Change usually takes time and most definitely a conscious effort. Whether it’s habits, lifestyle; physical, mental or spiritual the decision to change will require a different way of thinking and a lot of patience.

With the disabled, changes never seem to come fast enough. Often the change we are looking for is a cure or miracle drug or procedure that will propel us into mainstream of life. Like everyone else, patience is the key.

Unfortunately, change doesn’t always come. Sometimes we just have to live with the hand that’s been dealt us. We can sit and mope and wallow in self-pity or we can make that conscious decision to make the best of what we have. Anyone can do nothing-physically fit or disabled. It takes a sound mind and a lot of heart to say, “No matter what my circumstances are, I am going to make the best of what God has given me and trust that he will see me through.”

Change isn’t always easy and sometimes impossible but we always have a choice in attitude. Attitude toward change and life’s circumstances makes all the difference in the world! Now how’s your attitude?

If you would like free brochures to pass out in your community and help raise awareness on behalf of individuals with disabilities, call us or email us at info@maysmission.org and we would be glad to send some to you.

Tags ability not disability, Change and attitude, Disabilities, employ the disabled, Inspirational, interacting with the disabled, mays mission, on the job training, programs

Programs

To Tell Or Not To Tell

Are you disabled and unemployed? Do you have the feeling that if you tell a potential employer about your disability you won’t be hired? Great news! Since the inception of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, there has been a lot of progress for the disabled.

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (the “ADA”), an employer may ask disability-related questions and require medical examinations on an applicant only after the applicant has been given a conditional job offer. However, employers can ask if you can meet the job requirements before being hired.

Another benefit that has occurred since ADA inception is Jobs Accommodation Network (JAN). JAN is a free consulting service for employers, disabled employees and rehabilitation services. JAN provides free customized worksite accommodation solutions and technical assistance. It works in conjunction with the ADA and other disability-related laws and legislation. It also provides job searching and a links to employers who are committed to hiring people with disabilities.

Last but not least, Mays Mission has made progress helping the disabled. From on the job training for the disabled to scholarships to help disabled adults get a college degree. Camperships are important to because the children and adults with disabilities experience recreational opportunities while being around others with similar disabilities. This is why your support is so important to Mays Mission for the Handicapped and we sincerely thank you for your involvement in keeping the dream of Ewing W. Mays for a Mission to assist the disabled thriving. He saw the ability in one’s disability. His dream has given Mays Mission employees a chance to live productive lives.

For more information on the Americans with Disability Act, contact us at 1-888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org. For more information on JAN, go to askjan.org online or call 1-800-526-7234 (1-877-781-9403 – TTY) – where you will get live professional assistance.

Please share your experiences in the comments section and thank you for supporting individuals with disabilities! And if you would like to share with your community we have brochures like “On-The-Job Training Employees With Disabilities” and “The Americans With Disabilities Act” just email us at info@maysmission.org and we would be glad to send you some free copies of these brochures that were produced by employees with disabilities right here at Mays Mission.

You can help individuals with disabilities by encouraging businesses in your area to employ people with disabilities.

Tags ability not disability, Disabilities, employ the disabled, mays mission, on the job training, the americans with disabilities act

Programs

The Ewing W. Mays Mission

Post author By Jack Allen
Post date May 1, 2024
No Comments on The Ewing W. Mays Mission

Ewing W. Mays always remained strong in his belief that there were many goals yet unaccomplished for the Mission. The founder of the Mission was familiar with continuing needs for appropriate housing, jobs, therapy and spiritual guidance for the handicapped. He was dedicated towards these goals.

Mays Mission for the Handicapped, Inc. began in 1972 with a dream of Mr. Mays’ to provide employment and job training for handicapped workers. From its meager beginnings the Mission has grown and is now housed in a 10,000-sq. ft. facility.

Today, the Mission has a data processing department, a prepress, and graphic arts department, a complete lettershop, a large bindery, and two large color printing presses.

Ewing W. Mays lost both legs during a shelling attack in 1943 in Sicily where he was serving in World War II. Following his traumatic loss and reflecting on the enormity of it, he said, “I became very angry with the military, with the medical personnel, but most of all I was angry with God for letting such a terrible thing happen to me.”

Young Mays became so despondent, a chaplain was sent in to talk to him. It was during this conversation that a spiritual seed was planted in Mays and he regained the will to live. He began to realize that a loving God might have a worthwhile purpose for him, even though he had no legs.

He attributed his turnaround to two things: discovering Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior and falling in love with his lovely wife, Fay. They were married more than fifty years.

Mays accomplished many great things in his life as a disabled veteran. Initially he toured with a group of disabled veterans and sold war bonds and recruited employees for defense plants. Later he worked tireless hours with the Disabled American Veterans and toured overseas to bring hope to young men who had suffered similar losses.

All of these disabled young men told Mays how much they wanted to work and reclaim some productivity in their lives. In subsequent years, Mays was able to apply this principal equally to disabled civilians.

Mays always said, “The greatest satisfaction of my life has been the establishment of Mays Mission for the Handicapped which provides jobs and job training for so many handicapped folks. Our objective is to apply good, sound Christian ethics and principals to help our handicapped employees achieve economic stability and independence in their lives.”

For more information on how you can help, please call us at 888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org today.

Thank you for supporting people with disabilities!

Tags ability not disability, Disabilities, E.W. Mays, employ the disabled, Ewing W. Mays, faith in action, mays mission, Veterans

Programs

Seeking But Not Finding

What is the first thought that comes to mind when someone utters the word “disabled?” (Try it. It’s interesting.) Is it homebound, a wheelchair, someone who is blind or maybe uses a cane or crutch? Fact is, we all have our own interpretation. And, when it comes to disabilities, no two are alike.

Although no two disabled individuals are alike, two-thirds of the 54 million disabled individuals in the United States desire employment. I have stated this before but I feel that it deserves repeating; what would happen to our welfare, Medicare, unemployment, and the national debt if these people desiring employment were put to work? Let’s say less than half of these people started working. In two years’ time they could be let off welfare, hopefully off Medicare, and contributing to the system instead of depleting. A unique concept? Possibly, but I don’t think so. People, especially employers and our representatives in Washington, D.C. need to think along these lines and find avenues of training and employment for these people. We do our best to do our part at Mays Mission for the Handicapped. In providing on-the-job training and scholarships, we put people with disabilities to work and provide them an opportunity to further their education. You can do your part by encouraging an employer to hire people with disabilities. Also, call or write your congressman or congresswoman and ask them what they are doing to increase awareness of the fact that people with disabilities want, need, and deserve quality employment.

If you would like to help us advocate on behalf of people with disabilities we have brochures to help and we can provide these to you for free, just message us, call us or email us at info@maysmission.org and we would love to help. These brochures were produced by employees with disabilities here at Mays Mission. Thank you for your support and God bless your kind heart!

Tags ability not disability, Disabilities, employ the disabled, interacting with the disabled, mays mission, on the job training, programs, volunteerism

Programs

A wheelchair for Joshua

Mays Mission for the Handicapped is proud to announce we donated a wheelchair to former employee Joshua Garret. Joshua was very proud to receive the wheelchair, saying “This is much appreciated as I enter the next phase of my life.”

We originally bought the wheelchair while Joshua was working for us because, as a double amputee, it was difficult for him to be on his prosthetics all day. Joshua said it was much nicer and in better condition than his chair at home and could use one for home as well.

We were more than happy to provide him with this chair and we wish Joshua well in all his future endeavors.

To learn more call us or comment and we would be glad to provide you with more information and free brochures to help advocate on behalf of people with disabilities in your community. These brochures were produced by employees with disabilities like Joshua.

Thanks for you support!

Tags ability not disability, Disabilities, employ the disabled, faith in action, mays mission, on the job training, programs

Programs

Become an advocate for people with disabilities today!

Post author By Jack Allen
Post date April 18, 2024
No Comments on Become an advocate for people with disabilities today!

What can we do to improve the lives of others, especially those with disabilities?

The dictionary describes an “advocate” as one who publicly supports or suggests an idea, development or way of doing something.

Public education regarding the abilities and capabilities of people with disabilities is of utmost importance. You see, through our various programs and direct mail, we have the opportunity to inform and educate the public throughout the country that given the opportunity, people with disabilities can become productive citizens.

Through our On-The-Job Training Program we have seen scores of people with a variety of disabilities come and go here at Mays Mission while others have chosen to stay with us. It’s heartwarming to know that some have bought their own homes, learned to drive and purchased automobiles, while some have moved on to bigger and better opportunities. Seeing people succeed and become more independent where at one time hope seemed lost is an indescribable feeling. This On-The-Job Training Program is only possible because of the kind hearts of our donors.

For over fifty years now here at Mays Mission we have had one goal: to aid and assist people with disabilities. Won’t you please join us? Call us at 1-888-503-7955, email us at info@maysmission.org or message us on Facebook or Instagram to learn more about our programs and see how you can be an advocate for people with disabilities. We have brochures produced by individuals with disabilities we can send you free of charge to share in your community. And we accept donations through Paypal, just click the donate button here on our website. Thank you so much for your help in our mission of over 50 years of serving the disabled!

Tags 50 years of serving the disabled, ability not disability, Disabilities, disability advocacy, disability advocate, employ the disabled, interacting with the disabled, mays mission, on the job training, programs, volunteerism

Programs

Don’t count them out!

What do these men have in common: Thomas Edison, Ludwig van Beethoven, Albert Einstein and Jim Abbott? Before we get to that, let’s talk a little about “equality.” Now, I am not talking about getting all excited about race or gender, but thinking more along the lines of simply being human.

When the Pilgrims left England in pursuit of freedom, they found themselves in a new, untamed world. Although there were many similarities to the land they left behind, there were struggles ahead to establish what they once knew as “ordinary life.” The land needed to be cleared for homes and farming. Trades and businesses needed to be established so the new inhabitants could carry out the chores of settling towns and cities. The tasks ahead were monumental. Had so many not put forth a great effort, they surely would have failed.

Now, when we think of people with disabilities, countless citizens desire to put forth the effort, yet many are not given the opportunity to prove themselves. Countless numbers are prejudged by physical appearance, a speech impediment or something perceived as an “obviously disability.”

Did you know that Thomas Edison was thought to have a learning disability and didn’t learn to read until the age of twelve? Beethoven became deaf at about age 26 and composed some of his greatest works thereafter. Albert Einstein had a learning disability and did not speak until age 3. He had a very difficult time doing math in school. It was also very hard for him to express himself through writing. Jim Abbott was born with one hand. He was an “All America” pitcher for the University of Michigan. Abbott was drafted into the major leagues and eventually went on to pitch a “no hitter” for the New York Yankees against the Cleveland Indians.

All these men were given an opportunity to prove themselves despite a handicap or disability. And, that’s what we do at Mays Mission.

Now, would you go out and encourage an employer to give people with disabilities a chance? They would appreciate it and you will feel better for giving someone the opportunity to succeed.

If you would like more information on how you can help please call 888-503-7955 or email us at info@maysmission.org today. And thank you for supporting people with disabilities!

Hiring the disabled is smart business!

Tags employ the disabled, hire the disabled, mays mission, on the job training, programs, the ada, the americans with disabilities act

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