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The Need

In a world where opportunity should be accessible to everyone, young persons with disabilities face disproportionate challenges that can hinder their future. At Bender Leadership Academy, we are committed to changing these odds, but we need your support.

Consider this:

• In 2023, the labor force participation rate for youths aged 16 to 19 with disabilities was just 27.0%, compared to 37.5% for those without disabilities. The gap widens even further among 20 to 24-year-olds, with only 51.8% participation for those with disabilities, versus 72.5% for their non-disabled peers.
• Unemployment rates tell a similar story of disparity. Youths aged 16 to 19 with disabilities faced an 18.0% unemployment rate, significantly higher than the 11.0% for those without disabilities. For the 20 to 24 age group, the rate for persons with disabilities stood at 11.8%, almost double the 6.4% for those without disabilities.
• Overall, only 24.5% of people with disabilities are participating in the labor force, compared to 68.2% of those without disabilities. Additionally, the unemployment rate for individuals with disabilities is 8.6%, more than double the rate of 3.7% for those without disabilities.

These statistics are not just numbers; they represent real people facing real challenges. Bender Leadership Academy is on the front lines, offering specialized programs that equip young persons with disabilities with the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive in the workforce.

Your contribution can make a real difference. With your donation, we can expand our reach, enhance our programs, and continue to advocate for inclusion and equal opportunities in the workplace.

Every donation, no matter the size, contributes to a brighter, more inclusive future. Join us by donating today and help empower the next generation of leaders.

Together, we can bridge the gap and transform lives.