National Disability Independence Day Celebrates Historic ADA Law

While many businesses today are inclusive of people with disabilities, that was not the norm when the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law on July 26, 1990. The law, to ensure the inherent dignity of every person, regardless of disability, is commemorated with National Disability Independence Day on July 26. With the ADA, a basic tenet of Goodwill’s mission was thrust into all areas of public life, including the workplace, schools, and transportation. 
By 1990, Goodwill Industries of South Florida had already been advocating for people with disabilities and other barriers to work since 1959. Nevertheless, the landmark ADA legislation was a welcome change. 

Today, as Florida’s largest employer of people with disabilities, we appreciate that the individuals we serve benefit from the ADA in their daily interactions beyond the walls of Goodwill Industries, and that because of ADA a growing number of businesses now embrace inclusion of the skilled workforce we provide. 

One such Goodwill partner is Miami-based Badia Spices. Goodwill of South Florida program participants  package more than 350 thousand cinnamon sticks a year for the international spice distributor.  Goodwill provides essential job training, skilled workforce placement, and wraparound services for people with disabilities and other barriers to work. Over the past 10 years, Goodwill South Florida has placed over 11,000 people in jobs. 

The 18th largest employer in South Florida, Goodwill uses an innovative business model to fuel positive social change in our community.  Six different business lines, including stores and donation centers, apparel manufacturing,  healthcare laundry services, provide job opportunities for individuals with disabilities while helping to fund Goodwill’s mission services including job training and life skills workshops to promote independence and self-confidence.