This October, we celebrate the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) and its 2025 theme, Celebrating Value and Talent. At The Kennedy Collective, we celebrate the value and talent of people with disabilities, embracing them as innovators, contributors, and leaders whose skills enrich our businesses, Social Enterprises, and communities. Their visible impact proves what is possible when opportunity meets ability.
Unemployment for people with disabilities remains far too high, 65% to 82% depending on where you live. This is not a gap of talent, but of opportunity. Work is the powerful engine of dignity, community strength, and independence for all people. For people with disabilities, it is especially vital because it opens doors to inclusion, contribution, and the chance to make a difference. We are working toward a future where people with disabilities contribute fully to the economic and social life of our communities.
The Kennedy Collective proves every day: when the business community and government become model employers and partner with us and Social Enterprises like ours, people with disabilities deliver visible impact, bottom line results, stronger communities, supported families, and purpose driven, fulfilled workforces.
Now we call on you to join us in this work. Partner with us, and together we can help businesses and government become model employers while unlocking the Power of People with Purpose.
With gratitude and joy,
Alison Smith:
A Journey of Purpose, Pride, and Possibility
Alison Smith radiates joy—in her art, travels, and most of all at work. As a Community Assistant at Benchmark Senior Living in Shelton, she’s not just an employee; she’s a valued team member who trains, attends meetings, and takes on new responsibilities with pride. Employment has brought Alison independence, friendship, and a sense of purpose. Beyond work, she’s a longtime Special Olympics athlete and Global Messenger whose medals and miles reflect her adventurous spirit. “Having a job means making my goals…and being my best person,” she says.
Alison's story is part of our Collective Voices series. CLICK HERE for more stories and to be inspired.
"A Unique Perspective"
October Featured Artist
Rebecca Inwood "Monster"
Rebecca's art draws from her personal experiences and dreams. Through vibrant colors and meticulous detail, she brings these creatures to life, celebrating the imaginative and unexpected.
Rebecca, your art brightens our community—thank you.
To purchase The Kennedy Collective original art & art-inspired merchandise, visit:
Check out the new exhibit of work from the Artists of the Maggie Daly Arts Cooperative at Coffee for Good, 48 Maple Ave. in Greenwich.
The exhibit explores the many ways we seek, form, and sustain connection within ourselves, with others, and with the world around us.
Grab a cup of coffee & a treat and enjoy Connection.
All art is for sale. Proceeds benefit Coffee for Good and the Maggie Daly Arts Cooperative
Please join us for our Panel Discussions, hosted by our Stratford & Woodruff Family YMCA partners. The discussions will highlight the value of hiring people with disabilities through real stories from employers and employees. Hope to see you there!
See how art has transformed the lives of the individuals who grace our studio and how their creative spirit transforms ours!
Goings on at TKC...
We are proud to share that Advocate Alexa represented The Kennedy Collective at the 2025 SourceAmerica Grassroots Advocacy Conference in Washington, D.C.!
This national event gathers self-advocates, nonprofit leaders, and policymakers to amplify the voices of people with disabilities and expand opportunities for inclusive employment.
TKC President & CEO, Rick Sebastian, lead a Self-Advocacy Refresher session alongside Kylie Moore and Bobby Dodd.
Join us in celebrating Alexa and Rick for their leadership in advancing inclusion and building a brighter future for individuals with disabilities across the country!
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the New Ownership celebration at the Autism Health & Fitness Center on Sept 21!🎉✨
Your support inspires us to continue building a space where all abilities are welcomed, empowered, and celebrated.
A heartfelt thank you to Adam & Dedra Leapley, the founders, for creating such an incredible space and for their dedication to this community! ❤️💪🏻
On Friday, September 26, Project Journey hosted an end-of-summer BBQ for staff and individuals. Outdoor games, craft projects and delicious eats were enjoyed on this beautiful day marking the end of the summer season.
As we mark 75 years of collective impact, we’re proud to welcome the Autism Health & Fitness Center into The Kennedy Collective family. Come see what we’re all about—Tour the space, meet our team, and explore inclusive wellness programs.
The Power of Collective Impact
For 75 years, our collective impact has grown from everyday moments—small, ordinary experiences that change lives, deepen community, and open doors.
Please consider a gift today to keep these moments thriving, from social outings and community connections to creative programs that inspire joy and discovery.
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