Each October, we celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). It’s one way we recognize the community partnerships and jobsites that over the years have provided advocacy in the cause of equal employment, and mentorship for our students. Each partner is invaluable in our efforts to prepare students for a successful transition from school to adult life with meaningful work and community inclusion. We’re excited to highlight Brookdale Senior Living Potomac, an assisted living community that Ivymount has worked with for a decade – both before and after the pandemic.
Brookdale provides hands-on opportunities for Ivymount students to practice vocational skills while also fostering a sense of community and connection with senior residents. Students contribute to a positive social atmosphere by engaging with residents, serving meals and snacks, maintaining a clean environment, participating in group exercise programs, and more. We asked Yvette Bravo, program manager with Brookdale Potomac, to tell us more about her experience collaborating with students.
Q: What do you enjoy about working with Ivymount School?
A: I enjoy observing the relationships that develop between the residents and students. As students continue coming into our community, they enhance our program and strengthen these connections, creating a more positive environment. I love seeing the residents embrace students as part of their extended family.
Q: What are the benefits of working with Ivymount School?
A: One of the benefits would be how Ivymount has enhanced our dining room program. Everyone works together and the collaboration allows caregivers more time to socialize and build relationships with residents. At the same time, students also engage in meaningful activities. When students participate in exercises and other events, residents become excited to join in. Even on days when the students aren’t here, just mentioning them brings smiles to the residents’ faces. Many may not remember names, but they remember how they made them feel.
Q: What advice would you give to an employer considering partnering with Ivymount or hiring a person with a disability?
A: My first recommendation is to partner with Ivymount! Second, create a list of tasks that can benefit your program and communicate with Ivymount staff to modify these tasks as needed. I believe everyone has a role to play, and it truly takes a village. Keeping an open mind is crucial. Partnering with Ivymount means collaborating with dedicated professionals who are engaging, kind, and patient, which is the foundation for success. Together, we can create a positive and inclusive environment for everyone.
We are thankful for opportunities to work with partners like Brookdale, whose internship programs embody the spirit of National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Follow us on social media to join along in the celebration of “Access to Good Jobs for All” this October and beyond.
To learn more about NDEAM and how equitable hiring practices benefit us all, click here.
Interested in become a jobsite partner? Contact Student Employment Coordinator Katie Knight at kknight@ivymount.org.
