Please extend our congratulations to Megan Ensminger for being named as our Changemaker for October! The Changemakers series highlights outstanding Best Buddies in Illinois leaders who are forwarding the mission of friendship and inclusion.

Megan is a Best Buddies Jobs participant who currently works at Bickford Senior Living in Bloomington, Illinois, where she assists kitchen staff and goes the extra mile by always demonstrating a willingness to lend a hand.

Megan’s Employment Consultant, Matt Medlin, reaffirms her dedication and commitment to her role. Medlin shares, “Megan is an inspiration to everyone around her. She is constantly smiling and finding the best in every day. While at work at Bickford, she has been a beacon of positivity to the residents and other staff.”

She is also deeply involved in her local community. Megan joined the Illinois State University Best Buddies Friendship chapter in 2013 and has been an active member ever since! She also uses her social media as a platform for advocacy and awareness, sharing inspiration before work and her talents, like singing. She has even sung the National Anthem at the Friendship Walk on multiple occasions! Additionally, Megan is a part of the Seedling Theater, a stage production company for people with and without disabilities.

Megan is standing in front of the entrance of Bickford Senior Living with her hands on her hips. Behind her is a large “WELCOME” sign, glass doors, and nature decorations. Megan is grinning and wearing a cyan blue vest.

With the support of the Best Buddies Illinois Jobs program, Megan was able to secure a full-time position with Bickford Senior Living. Bickford has hired several Best Buddies Jobs participants over the years and across the state, showing true devotion to inclusive hiring practices. We are so grateful for Bickford’s support of Best Buddies!

This month, we’re also celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)! NDEAM occurs each October and represents a time to honor the contributions of individuals with disabilities to the workforce. It’s also an opportunity to raise awareness about the challenges faced by people with IDD in securing and maintaining employment and to promote inclusive workplaces that value diversity and accessibility.

The theme for NDEAM this year is “Access to Good Jobs for All.” This statement symbolizes the commitment we must take to ensure workers with disabilities have access to meaningful and well-paid jobs during every month of the year.

Best Buddies Illinois is committed to creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to form meaningful friendships and live fulfilling lives. Our mission aligns with the goals of NDEAM, as we strive to help individuals with disabilities develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the workplace and beyond. To learn more about NDEAM and how you can celebrate, visit HERE!

Keep up the great work, Megan! Are YOU interested in nominating someone or yourself to receive the Changemaker Award? Fill out our nomination form HERE. To be selected for the following month, please submit this form no later than the 15th of the month. We look forward to continuing to feature amazing individuals who are advancing the mission of inclusion!