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DRC Newsletter - October 2025
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)
Earlier this month, the Disability Rights Center of Kansas (DRC) joined fellow disability advocates at the Kansas Statehouse for the Kansas Disability Employment Awareness Month (KDEAM) proclamation signing. We are grateful to Governor Kelly for recognizing the importance of competitive, integrated employment in Kansas.
National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is a time to recognize the skills, talents, and achievements of workers with disabilities. Each October, the U.S. Department of Labor announces a theme for NDEAM. This year, the theme was "Celebrating Value and Talent", highlighting the many contributions people with disabilities make in the workplace.
For too many Kansans with disabilities, finding and keeping a job is still an uphill climb. NDEAM is a reminder that barriers to employment can and should be addressed — through fair hiring practices, accessible workplaces, and a commitment to giving every person the opportunity to succeed. Anyone who wants to work can work with the right services and supports!
As NDEAM comes to an end, remember, DRC has advocates and attorneys on staff to help with disability rights issues. DRC handles all disability rights issues all year long, including, but not limited to, disability rights related to employment. If you have questions about your disability rights or need help with an employment issue as a person with a disability, contact us through our online help form (drckansas.org/get-help) or call toll-free at (877) 776-1541.
Read the full proclamation here.
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Employment Success Stories #NDEAM
Client Story: *Pam works in a warehouse. She has autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and borderline personality disorder. Pam contacted DRC after receiving a number of write-ups at work for returning late from breaks. Pam believed her disability played a role in the challenges she was having returning from her breaks on time. She wanted help to address the issue.
A DRC advocate and attorney advised Pam on how to request a reasonable accommodation, including obtaining medical documentation. With DRC's support, Pam was ultimately approved for an accommodation that allowed her extended breaks, helping her keep her job and get the extra time she needed.
Client Story: *Matt is a 23-year-old with Sotos syndrome, intellectual disability, and communication challenges. He reached out to DRC for help after Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) denied his request for out-of-state education services that he needed to pursue employment.
A DRC attorney represented Matt at a fair hearing, where the denial was overturned. As a result, Matt was reimbursed more than $50,000 dollars in college expenses that he had paid while the decision was being appealed. This removed a major barrier to Matt's career goals and enabled him to stay in school!
*Client's names have been changed to maintain confidentiality.
DRC protects the disability rights of Kansans in employment issues. If you have questions about your rights or need help with an employment issue as a person with a disability, contact us through our online help form (drckansas.org/get-help) or call toll-free at (877) 776-1541.
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New Video: What Does the Client Assistance Program (CAP) Do?
The Client Assistance Program (CAP) is here to make sure you get the supports you need to get or keep a job! It is one of DRC's programs.
The CAP helps people with disabilities:
- Work with agencies to understand what benefits and services are available to them
- Cut through red tape
- Resolve issues with Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) or Centers for Independent Living (CILs)
- Get the tools you need to reach your goals
The CAP has your back if the supports you need to get or keep a job are delayed or denied!
DRC has a new video that explains how the CAP works for you! Check it out on our YouTube channel, linked below.
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New Video: Rights Under Medicaid
Medicaid is a lifeline for Kansans with disabilities– and your rights matter! With the cuts to Medicaid happening at the federal level, now more than ever, it is critical that you know your rights and how to use them when Medicaid services are reduced, wrongly denied, or delayed.
This video will help you know what to expect from Medicaid, how to request a fair hearing, and access the supports that help you stay in your home and community.
Check it out on DRC's YouTube channel, linked below.
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Recognizing Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Domestic violence affects people from all walks of life, but for individuals with disabilities, the barriers to safety and support can be even greater. Studies estimate up to 85% of domestic violence cases involving people with disabilities go unreported. This is attributed to factors like:
- Fear of losing housing, care, or independence
- Communication barriers
- Lack of accessible resources
- Stigma or fear of being disbelieved
(via the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence)
The attorneys and advocates at DRC's Disability & Aging Crime Victims Unit (DACVU) understand the additional challenges survivors of domestic violence with disabilities face and are here to help! We can do things like:
- Prosecute protection orders
- Advocate for you and help you talk to law enforcement, prosecutors, etc.
- Seek accommodations to make court less stressful
- Explain the legal process
- and much more!
DRC's DACVU Team Helps Domestic Violence Survivor and Her Daughter Rebuild
Words from the client: “I would like to sincerely express my heartfelt gratitude for the support and assistance provided to me and my daughter during this incredibly difficult and trying time. Navigating the aftermath of domestic violence while working to rebuild a safe and stable environment has not been easy, and your efforts have helped ease some of the immense burden we’ve faced. Your understanding, time, and willingness to listen have made a difference in a moment when hope felt far away. I remain committed to doing all I can to move forward safely and responsibly, and your role in that journey is deeply appreciated. Thank you for being part of the support system that helps survivors like myself take the steps necessary to heal and rebuild.”
The DACVU provides legal and advocacy assistance to crime victims with disabilities and seniors. Learn more about DRC's DACVU team on our website. reach out for help now through our online help form (drckansas.org/get-help) or call toll-free at (877) 776-1541. ask for a member of the DACVU team.
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DRC is Here to Help
DRC has attorneys and advocates who provide free advocacy and legal services for disability rights. We help with many different disability rights issues. Additionally, our Disability & Aging Crime Victims Unit (DACVU) helps both Kansans with disabilities and Kansas seniors who have been victims of crime. Need assistance? Contact us today.
Get Help
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More Resources
Have you visited the Resource Center on DRC's website? The Resource Center has lots of information and tools to advocate for your disability rights. There is information on topics like Assistive Technology, Special Education, Employment, Alternatives to Guardianship, Social Security, and more.
Check Out the Resource Center
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Zealously advocating for the disability rights of Kansans to protect their full participation as citizens.
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