News release
The Santa Clarita Valley Mayor’s Committee for Employment of Individuals with Disabilities invites the community to a breakfast honoring National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
The event is scheduled 9-11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 23, at William S. Hart Hall in Hart Park, 24151 Newhall Ave., Newhall.
October 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of NDEAM, an annual recognition of the positive impact of people with disabilities in the American workforce, according to a news release from the committee.
This yearly event began in 1945 after World War II as a weeklong national observance of the contributions of people with physical disabilities, the release said.
Up to 130 members of the SCV business community are expected to attend this presentation, which will share the power of diversity in the workplace and the many benefits to hiring individuals with special needs, the release said. “Attendees will hear inspiring stories, and learn how they too can get a business advantage by tapping into an underutilized section of the Santa Clarita workforce.”
The event will be moderated by Mayor Bill Miranda. Topics include skills-based hiring, benefits of hiring, coaching in action, support for employers and paid internships.
Four speakers — three with an emphasis in entertainment — will offer insight into their own experiences, which have resulted in long-term employees who bring value to their companies while enhancing morale in the workplace, the release said. The speakers are: Jeff Murphy, of Quest Pacifica LLC; Robert Shen, of Remo Inc.; Hilary Kokenda, of Zavikon; and John Prabhu, of LA North Studios.
Tickets ($12) are available at bit.ly/42WWhdS or can be purchased at the door for $12.
