To: Board of Supervisors
Department or Agency Name(s): Human Resources Department and Human Services Department
Staff Name and Phone Number: Janell Crane, 707-565-2885; Angela Struckmann, 707-565-5800
Vote Requirement: Majority
Supervisorial District(s): Countywide
Recommended Action:
Title
Adopt a Gold Resolution Recognizing October 2026 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month in Sonoma County.
End
Executive Summary:
The Human Resources Department, in partnership with the Human Services Department Job Link program and the Department of Rehabilitation, is requesting the Board of Supervisors recognize October 2026 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month in Sonoma County.
Discussion:
October 2026 is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). NDEAM provides an opportunity to recognize the valuable contributions, talents, skills, and achievements of individuals with disabilities and to promote greater awareness of the importance of inclusive employment practices.
NDEAM traces its origins to 1945, when Congress established “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.” The observance was later expanded to a month and renamed National Disability Employment Awareness Month. October 2026 marks the 81st anniversary of the observance and coincides with the celebration of America’s 250th birthday. The 2026 theme, “Celebrating Value and Talent,” honors the longstanding contributions of Americans with disabilities to our nation’s history and success, from its founding to the present day.
In Sonoma County, individuals with disabilities have long contributed to the workforce and to our communities. The County of Sonoma demonstrates its commitment to inclusive employment as an equal employment opportunity employer through inclusive employment practices, contracting with businesses that employ people with disabilities, and providing responsive employment services and resources through the Human Services Department.
The Human Resources Department, in partnership with the Human Services Department and the Department of Rehabilitation, recognizes the importance of meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and supports efforts to promote inclusive workplaces that recognize and value the talents, skills, and contributions of workers with disabilities. By recognizing October 2026 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month, the Board of Supervisors reaffirms Sonoma County’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, accessible, and diverse workplace where individuals with disabilities have meaningful opportunities to participate fully in the workforce and contribute their talents to Sonoma County.
Prior Board Actions:
2025-0996: Adopt a Gold Resolution proclaiming October 2025 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month in Sonoma County. (Countywide)
2024-1034: Adopt a Gold Resolution Recognizing October 2024 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month in Sonoma County. (Countywide)
2023-1135: Adopt a Gold Resolution Recognizing October 2023 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month in Sonoma County. (Countywide)
2019-1554: Adopt a Gold Resolution Recognizing National Disability Employment Awareness Month, October, 2019. (Third District)
Fiscal Summary
Narrative Explanation of Fiscal Impacts:
Not applicable
Narrative Explanation of Staffing Impacts (If Required):
Not applicable
Attachments:
Resolution
Related Items “On File” with the Clerk of the Board:
Not applicable