In Their Own Words: NC’s Disability Workforce
Every October, we at NCCDD celebrate and recognize National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). NCCDD collected stories across the state from employees with disabilities. The stories share why work is important to people with I/DD — from learning new skills to making new friends to leading with purpose.
This month’s message brings the voices of individuals in the workforce and their stories about what they do at work and why they love their job. Read their stories here.
To learn about North Carolina’s employment resources, visit NC Division of Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities.
Jake Plue - East Frank Superette and Kitchen (Monroe)
Carley Englander and Robbie Huffman are the owners and operators of East Frank Superette and Kitchen in Monroe. They are all about diversity and inclusion as just part of what they do and who they are. Jake feels like just another employee there, which is all we can ever hope for when it comes to our loved one and their work in the community.
It’s one of the few places where I don’t feel like Jake needs me to ‘manage’ anything - his bosses and I communicate regularly, and they provide him with all the supervision that he needs while at work; plus they quickly became Jake’s emergency contact in life when Kevin and I need a backup. They may not think that is a big deal, but we do and we are very grateful.
Jake has been employed there part-time for five years now.
Sarah Gatewood - Hitachi Energy (Raleigh)
I am an intern at Hitachi Energy in Raleigh. My job is organizing snacks, labeling shirts with sizes, and learning new skills. I also get to make social media videos which is a lot of fun. And I love to see my friends in the office. The best part of my job is my friends in the office, my boss, and my job coach.
I currently work in the EIPD program at Durham County as a Peer Support Specialist. What makes my job fun is coming to work each day, preparing to help clients, and guiding them toward a successful job search. The best part of my job is interacting with my coworkers and clients, as well as documenting my interactions with clients.
Kaitlin Moncol - Jerry’s Artarama (Raleigh)
My name is Kaitlin Moncol and I am a Creative at Jerry's Artarama. I have been working here since October 2012. Every day at Jerry’s Artarama brings something a little different. Between stocking shelves, helping customers, working the register, and opening and closing the store, there’s always something to do.
One of my favorite things is organizing the paints and making all the colors look pretty. I also love working with my coworkers, hearing about the interesting projects customers are working on, and getting to see their finished creations. People come in with some really unique ideas!
But the best part of my job is being able to make someone’s day a little better. A lot of people come in feeling stressed, and it’s nice to see them leave feeling more relaxed and happy.
Knowing I can make even a small difference in someone’s day is what makes the job so rewarding.
Adam Strom - Cambridge Village (Apex)
For nearly seven years, Adam Strom has been a familiar face to residents and staff at Cambridge Village of Apex, where he works 20 hours a week as a porter.
Adam has a variety of responsibilities that help keep Cambridge Village running smoothly. Each day, he collects and takes out recycling, helps wrap silverware in the dining room, and keeps the coffee bar clean and stocked. He has also assisted with laundry in the fitness center, making sure residents have fresh, clean towels.
His work extends beyond these daily responsibilities. Adam helps set up Thursday activities for residents, including balloon volleyball, cornhole, card games, and ladder toss. He has also assisted with special events, including a hot dog and beer fest, soup extravaganzas, and men's breakfasts. These activities give Adam additional opportunities to interact with residents and contribute to the community.
Over the years, Adam has developed friendships and become a valued member of the Cambridge Village community. His contributions were recognized in October 2026 when he received the Employee of the Month Award, celebrating his outstanding performance and dedication.
Adam said, "I like seeing my friends at Cambridge Village. I like helping people and doing my jobs." And according to Adam, his favorite part of coming to work is "my friends!"
For Adam, who has Fragile X syndrome and autism, employment provides much more than a paycheck. It gives him a place where he belongs, a familiar routine, and opportunities to connect with people who know and value him.
His pride in his work is evident each morning as he puts on his Cambridge Village polo shirt and makes sure his name tag is in place. He's ready to go to work and be part of the team.
For his parents, Adam's employment represents something equally important. His job provides structure and purpose to his days, meaningful relationships outside his family, and earnings that contribute to his ABLE account and long-term financial security.
With the support of his longtime job coach and an employer that recognizes his abilities, Adam has built a successful employment history and become an important part of daily life at Cambridge Village.
Grant Person - Peer Support Specialist (Durham County)
I currently work in the EIPD program at Durham County as a Peer Support Specialist.
What makes my job fun is coming to work each day, preparing to help clients, and guiding them toward a successful job search.
The best part of my job is interacting with my coworkers and clients, as well as documenting my interactions with clients.