DPHHS is offering one-time incentive payments to recruit employees at Montana’s state-run health care facilities. For more information go to Work4DPHHS.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: September 29 2025

Contact: Jon Ebelt, Communications Director, DPHHS, (406) 444-0936, (406) 461-3757
jebelt@mt.gov

DPHHS and Montana Businesses, Professionals Celebrate Disability Mentoring Week

In celebration of the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) is partnering with businesses and professionals across the state for Disability Mentoring Week, October 20-24, 2025.

"We’re excited to offer this opportunity for youth and adults with disabilities to experience hands-on career exploration and mentorship,” DPHHS Director Charlie Brereton said. "DPHHS thanks the many local businesses that help us celebrate the immense value and talent that people with disabilities contribute to the workplace."

This year’s theme, “Celebrating Value and Talent,” honors the contributions of workers with disabilities and reinforces the importance of fair and accessible employment practices across Montana.

The week’s festivities include:

Work-Based Learning Experiences: Participants will be paired with professionals in their field of interest for one-on-one mentoring and hands-on job shadowing.
Career Workshops: Sessions include resume building, interview preparation, and job search strategies.
Panel Discussions: Industry leaders and disability advocates will share insights into workplace inclusion and diversity.
Networking Opportunities: Participants will be able to connect with employers, peers, and mentors.
Employer Training: Businesses will receive guidance on disability awareness and strategies for building welcoming and supportive workplaces.

Last year, about 165 students participated from communities throughout Montana, including Alberton, Baker, Belt, Butte, East Helena, Frenchtown, Great Falls, Hamilton, Lockwood, and Missoula.

Disability Mentoring Week is just one part of DPHHS Disability Employment and Transition Division’s (DETD) year-round efforts to connect students with career exploration opportunities. DETD works year-round to pair students with job exploration opportunities and invites anyone interested in hosting a student to contact them for more information.

There are about 81,800 Montanans aged 18-64 with disabilities. This population is split among 35,000 Montanans with disabilities who are not in the labor force and 45,000 who are in the labor force and working. An additional 1,800 individuals are in the labor force but unemployed.

"We are committed to empowering all Montanans to reach their full potential, creating a more connected community and a stronger economy,” said Chanda Hermanson, administrator of the DETD. “A skilled and motivated disability workforce is ready to strengthen local businesses."

To learn more or participate in Disability Mentoring Week, visit the event webpage or contact the DETD’s Andrew Lowney (406) 210-2201, alowney@mt.gov; Jacob Kuntz (406) 890-5624, jkuntz3@mt.gov; or Cheri Reed-Anderson (406) 202-8830, creed@mt.gov.