We are excited to celebrate a major professional milestone for Diana Wolfe, who officially completed the American Sign Language and Deaf Studies Certification Program through Vincennes University in December 2025. This accomplishment represents approximately 18 months of dedication and hard work, all while Diana continued to successfully manage her current job responsibilities. She completed the program with support from Sycamore Services’ Training and Tuition Reimbursement Program, demonstrating both personal initiative and a strong commitment to professional growth. Diana pursued this certification after recognizing a need to better serve the individuals she supports. Throughout the program, she immersed herself in Deaf Culture, gaining valuable insight into communication barriers, lived experiences, and more inclusive ways to connect and support others. As Diana shared: “This program has been especially meaningful to me because of my own hearing loss and challenges.” With her new certification, Diana is now able to support more individuals in her role as an Employment Consultant, including assisting with job searches and training without the need for additional interpreters. This not only expands access for those we serve but also strengthens Sycamore’s commitment to inclusion and independence. We are incredibly proud of Diana’s achievement and grateful for the passion and perspective she brings to her work every day. Please join us in congratulating her on this outstanding accomplishment! Great job, Diana!

At Sycamore Services, our mission has always been to support individuals with disabilities and their families so they can live full meaningful lives in the community. Every day, we provide person centered services that help people grow thrive and connect from therapeutic supports and skill building to compassionate care coordination that honors dignity choice and independence. Right now, our work is facing a period of significant systemic change in Indiana, and your support has never been more important. What Is the Medicaid Waiver Reset in Indiana Indiana’s Medicaid Home and Community Based Services waivers provide critical funding for services that allow people to live in their homes and communities rather than institutional settings. Programs such as the Family Supports Waiver and the Community Integration and Habilitation Waiver form the backbone of services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across the state. The Indiana Bureau of Disability Services is currently leading a multi year effort known as the Waiver Reset. This initiative is designed to redesign the state’s Medicaid waivers with the goal of modernizing services improving flexibility and creating a more person centered system. According to the state, individuals currently receiving services under the existing waiver programs are expected to transition into newly redesigned waivers by 2027. While the long term goals of the Waiver Reset are promising, the transition period creates uncertainty for individuals families and service providers alike. How the Waiver Reset May Impact Services Large scale system changes especially those tied to Medicaid funding can bring real and immediate challenges for providers like Sycamore Services. As waiver rules eligibility requirements assessment tools and covered services evolve there may be fluctuations in funding and reimbursement. These changes make it more difficult for nonprofit providers to plan staffing maintain programs and ensure continuity of care. The transition also requires significant administrative effort including staff training system updates and service redesign. These changes demand time and resources at a moment when providers are already operating with limited margins. Indiana’s waiver system has long faced challenges with waiting lists and access to services. Thousands of Hoosiers are currently waiting for waiver support. Any disruption during the redesign process risks increasing delays for individuals and families who urgently need services. For organizations like Sycamore Services that rely heavily on Medicaid waiver funding to deliver supported employment community participation respite and residential supports these changes make sustainability more challenging than ever. Why Your Support Matters Right Now During times of transition community support becomes essential. As the Waiver Reset unfolds Sycamore Services must be prepared to respond to increased demand navigate funding uncertainty and continue advocating for the people we serve. Your generosity helps us maintain stability when state funding systems are in flux. It allows us to fill gaps when Medicaid reimbursement does not fully cover the cost of care. It strengthens our ability to support families advocate for fair policies and ensure individuals continue to receive high quality services without interruption. How You Can Help Your donation directly supports Program continuity even during changes in Medicaid funding Policy advocacy and education for individuals families and the broader community Critical services that go beyond what Medicaid alone can fund. Now more than ever your support helps ensure that individuals with disabilities are not left behind during systemic change. Take Action Today We invite you to stand with Sycamore Services during this pivotal moment. Please consider making a donation today to help us continue providing life changing services and advocating for a more inclusive and equitable future. Together we can navigate change strengthen our community and ensure every person we serve has the support they need to thrive. Donate today at www.sycamoreservices.com/give . References Indiana Family and Social Services Administration Bureau of Disability Services. BDS Waiver Reset Overview and Timeline . Available at Indiana Government website. Indiana Family and Social Services Administration. Medicaid HCBS Programs Overview . Available at Indiana Government website. Indiana Family and Social Services Administration. Public Notice on Proposed Waiver Amendments (July 2025) . Available at Indiana Government website. Indiana Family and Social Services Administration. HCBS Waiver Waiting List Information . Available at Indiana Government website. Indiana Government Medicaid Member Information. Community Integration and Habilitation Waiver Eligibility . Available at Indiana Government website. Tendercare Health and Home Services. 2026 Waiver Redesign Timeline and Family Guidance . Human Services Research Institute and BDS. Waiver Reset Open Feedback Call Resources . Indiana Family and Social Services Administration. Waiver Invitation Process Update (180-day rule) . Indiana Government Waiver Redesign Concept Papers and Materials. Indiana Government Public Notice on Waiting List Changes (Nov 2025).

Sycamore Services is preparing to launch a transformative new initiative this January: a two-week onsite art residency in partnership with Creative Abundance Consulting , a nationally recognized organization that helps human-service agencies build thriving, inclusive art programs. This residency will lay the foundation for Sycamore’s new Art Program—an initiative designed to spark creativity, build confidence, and create meaningful opportunities for individuals we serve across Indiana. Creative Abundance is known for its hands-on, community-centered model that reimagines traditional day services. Their residencies help organizations shift from routine, task-based programming to dynamic “making spaces” where creativity, self-expression, and belonging take center stage. During their time at Sycamore, Creative Abundance will train staff, help us set up dedicated art-making environments, and collaborate with participants as they create vibrant, imaginative works of art.Learn more at: https://creativeabundancegroup.com As we prepare for this exciting residency, Sycamore is calling on our community—families, staff, supporters, and neighbors—to help us collect the materials needed to launch a resource-rich art studio. These supplies will not only support the residency in January but will continue to fuel artistic exploration throughout the year. Materials We Are Collecting 1. Fabric & Textiles We can use almost anything —especially colorful, textured, or unique pieces. Prom dresses, sparkly clothing, everyday wearable items 100% wool sweaters (felted: wash hot with soap, dry on high heat) Cotton yardage, upholstery fabric, velvet Flat sheets, curtains, bedspreads 2. Thread, Yarn & Embroidery Supplies Single-color yarn and embroidery thread (bold colors preferred) Sewing thread Embroidery hoops (10” or smaller) Blunt-end, plastic, and sharp embroidery needles 3. Tools & Paint Fabric-only scissors, and paper scissors Acrylic craft paint (if you already have some on hand) 4. Workspace Supplies (Optional) Tarps or large cardboard sheets to protect floors, tables, and drying spaces 5. Odds & Ends (Highly Encouraged!) Creative Abundance promotes a “use what you have” philosophy—many of the most exciting art pieces emerge from unexpected materials. Buttons, beads, costume jewelry Lace, ribbon, rope Foam balls CDs, 45s, bottle caps Wooden objects (chairs, desks, tables) Lampshades Bedsheets, duvet covers Any craft materials or interesting items you’re ready to pass along Why This Matters for Sycamore Launching an art program is more than adding another activity—it’s creating a space where individuals with disabilities can explore identity, creativity, and community. Creative Abundance specializes in helping organizations like Sycamore cultivate environments where people feel free to imagine, try new things, and express themselves in powerful ways. This residency will serve as a catalyst for a long-term program that: Encourages creative growth and learning Builds confidence, independence, and a sense of accomplishment Connects participants to staff and peers in new, meaningful ways Brings joy, color, and imagination into daily life at Sycamore With the community’s support, we can create a fully stocked, inspiring studio that reflects Sycamore’s commitment to helping people live more independent, fulfilling, and connected lives. How to Support the Residency Donated materials may be dropped off at 1001 Sycamore Lane, Danville, IN 46214. If you prefer to contribute financially toward supplies, you can make a gift at sycamoreservices.com/give . Join Us for the Public Open House The Creative Abundance residency will conclude with a public open house , where community members are invited to step inside our making space, meet the artists, and see firsthand the incredible work created during the residency. This celebration will highlight not only the art produced, but also the energy, joy, and connection that this new program brings to Sycamore We hope you’ll join us to experience the creativity and community spirit taking root here.

When Kendyl Clark  walked through the doors of Sycamore just over a year ago, she was stepping into more than a new job—she was beginning a new chapter. After moving back home to Indiana from Kansas City and pursuing a career change, Kendyl knew she wanted her next role to reflect where her heart had always been: helping others. After applying and interviewing, she quickly fell in love with the mission, values, and people that define Sycamore ABA. “I’m proud to be part of a team that makes such a meaningful difference,” she shares. Finding Joy in Every Milestone Kendyl’s favorite part of her work is simple yet powerful: seeing the joy on the kids’ faces. Each moment of progress—no matter how small—reminds her why ABA matters. She watches children build skills, confidence, and independence, all while discovering new possibilities for themselves. “The progress they make is so inspiring, and being part of that journey is what makes this work so meaningful to me,” she says. “RBTs and BCBAs are truly superheroes.” Meeting Challenges with Compassion ABA also comes with challenges, especially when children are still learning to communicate and may engage in self-injurious behaviors. Those moments, Kendyl says, can be heartbreaking because you know the child is trying to express something they don’t yet have the tools to say. She approaches those situations with patience, empathy, and determination—working to bridge the gap and help each child find their voice. “Those moments remind me why this work matters so much.” A Team Like No Other Kendyl believes it’s important for people to understand how much ABA has evolved—and how exceptional Sycamore’s approach truly is. “The ABA staff here go above and beyond in ways I’ve never seen anywhere else,” she explains. The dedication and teamwork are unmatched, and it shows in the growth and happiness of the children served each day. Beyond the Work Outside of work, Kendyl lives a life full of heart, humor, and a whole lot of animals. A former college softball player from Bowling Green State University (Go Falcons!), she has lived in Ohio, Connecticut, and three Kansas City suburbs before returning to her Indiana roots. Today, she and her husband live on Knucklehead Farm , a lively rescue-filled haven where the animals have just as much personality as the humans. There’s a partially blind horse, a neglect-case horse, an auction-house mini donkey, two fainting goats who provide endless laughs, a bossy potbelly pig who thinks he runs the farm, and a barn cat named Pickles who—quite frankly—actually does. Add in multiple chickens and two adorable red nose pit bulls, and life is full and lively. When they’re not caring for their four-legged crew, Kendyl and her husband flip houses—restoring old homes with love, preserving their charm, and creating space for new memories. “It’s extremely chaotic, busy, and our kind of fun,” she says with a smile. “We wouldn’t trade it for anything… except maybe a nap.” Interested in joining the Sycamore team? Check out our openings HERE . We'd love to meet!

Inspired by an article originally published in Verywell Health Magazine, Special Edition: Fall 2025 , and medically reviewed by Stephanie Hartselle, MD . The teenage years can be a time of rapid change for any young person—but for autistic teens, these transitions can feel uniquely complex. No two autistic individuals experience adolescence the same way. Their journey is shaped by their personal strengths, communication styles, age of diagnosis, the level of acceptance in their home environment, and the supports available in school and the community. At Sycamore Services, we know that empowering young people begins with understanding their needs and celebrating their abilities. As youth move from childhood into adolescence—and eventually toward adulthood—there are many opportunities for families, educators, and service providers to make this transition smoother, healthier, and more meaningful. To expand the perspective of this piece, we also reference insights from Autism Speaks’ 2024 “Adolescence and Transition Toolkit,”  which provides practical guidance for families preparing for the teen and young-adult years. How Autistic Traits May Help Reduce Teen Stress While many teenagers wrestle with peer pressure, social comparison, or fitting in, some autistic teens experience adolescence differently—and sometimes with fewer of these stressors. Because many autistic youth are more internally focused and less influenced by external expectations, they may be: Less affected by social comparison  or media-driven standards More confident pursuing personal interests , independently or with like-minded peers More comfortable with structure , which helps them adapt to new routines such as daily hygiene, shaving, or personal care Of course, every autistic teen is unique. But for some, the reduced emphasis on social pressure can make aspects of the teen years surprisingly manageable. Navigating Physical Changes With Clear, Concrete Support Puberty brings unfamiliar changes—and autistic teens often benefit from explicit, direct, step-by-step guidance . Unlike neurotypical teens who may infer information from hints or general discussions, autistic youth typically learn best when instructions are concrete, visual, and consistent. Support may include: Choosing a deodorant they like and practicing daily use Establishing structured routines for bathing and showering Teaching safe shaving with tools like electric razors Using visual aids, videos, or social stories to supplement school-based lessons on puberty and sexual health Providing hands-on instruction for menstruation management Teaching boundaries around private vs. public behavior If challenges arise—particularly concerning public behaviors—families can work with behavioral clinicians to teach strategies that keep teens safe and socially appropriate. Intellectual and Academic Differences Autistic teens can have a wide range of learning profiles: Some excel in memorization, patterns, and structured problem-solving Others face challenges with reading comprehension, writing, or abstract thinking About 30% experience intellectual disabilities, while many others have ADHD or learning differences As academic expectations shift during the teen years—from factual recall to critical thinking—many autistic teens need individualized supports. These supports might include: One-on-one tutoring or paraprofessional assistance Modified pacing of curriculum Special-education classes with adapted content Behavioral or pre-employment programs offered through the school or at disability-focused learning centers Standardized tests can be especially difficult. Families may advocate for accommodations such as extra time, separate testing rooms, or alternative assessment formats. Emotional Experiences: Unique Strengths and Unique Challenges For some autistic teens, puberty brings intense emotions—especially if they are socially aware, highly verbal, or eager for friendship. Emotional experiences may include: Difficulty interpreting social cues Heightened anxiety when routines change Social rejection or bullying Emotional meltdowns or bolting under stress Depression or suicidal thoughts in higher-functioning teens But with early support, these challenges are often manageable. Helpful interventions can include: Social-skills groups Therapy or medication for anxiety and depression Interest-based clubs and peer groups Behavioral intervention Exploring alternative school settings if a traditional environment becomes overwhelming Autism Speaks’ toolkit emphasizes the importance of teaching social boundaries directly , especially during adolescence when peer expectations shift quickly. Planning Early for Adulthood Transition planning should begin as early as the early teen years. Starting early gives families and service providers the best chance to create a personalized path that reflects the teen’s strengths, goals, and needs. Planning may involve: Asking the school to begin a formal transition plan with ongoing assessments Exploring adult services in the state Researching post-secondary education or vocational training options Identifying autism-friendly college programs Discussing future living arrangements Deciding on guardianship, health proxy, or supported decision-making Planning long-term financial supports through tools like special-needs trusts At Sycamore Services, we partner with youth, families, and schools to build these pathways—whether someone is preparing for employment, independent living, higher education, or community engagement. Sycamore’s Commitment: Empowering Teens for the Road Ahead Autistic teens have extraordinary potential, and with the right mix of support, structure, and opportunity, their transition into adulthood can be full of growth, independence, and confidence. Our programs—including pre-employment training, summer youth Pre-ETS, social-skills development, community integration, and family supports—are designed to ensure that teens and young adults have what they need to thrive. By understanding their strengths, meeting their needs with compassion, and planning early, we can help every autistic teen enter adulthood with dignity, direction, and a strong sense of self. Credits & Sources Adapted from an article originally published in Verywell Health Magazine, Special Edition: Fall 2025 , medically reviewed by Stephanie Hartselle, MD .Additional insights referenced from Autism Speaks, “Adolescence and Transition Toolkit,” 2024 Edition.

Sycamore Services has wrapped up a successful 16-week art therapy partnership with students from the University of Indianapolis Art Therapy Program at our Indy South Day Program. This capstone project allowed students to observe, engage, and explore how individuals with disabilities connect with art—and how creativity can support growth, communication, and independence. Each week, the students introduced new materials and mediums designed to spark imagination and gently challenge participants. From textured tools to vibrant paints and mixed-media projects, the activities supported social interaction, fine motor development, and personal expression. With more than 90% participation throughout the program, individuals looked forward to each session and the creative opportunities it brought. Program Coordinator Jamie Query shared one of her favorite outcomes from the experience: “I noticed individuals assisting each other, and that was a really cool outcome to see.” This collaboration not only enriched the students’ capstone experience but also brought meaningful engagement and new artistic exploration to the individuals we serve. Sycamore Services is grateful for partnerships like this that foster community connection and support our mission to help individuals build skills, confidence, and independence through creative expression. Interested in learning more about our Day Programs? We’d love to connect with you! Reach out to Sycamore Services to learn how our programs support skill-building, independence, and meaningful community engagement.

Alexus Wright At Sycamore Services, our employment supports help individuals with disabilities build the skills, confidence, and independence they need to thrive in the workplace. With guidance from our dedicated Employment Consultants, the people we serve are able to overcome barriers, discover their strengths, and succeed in meaningful jobs across their communities. Alexus’s story is a shining example of how high-quality disability employment services can open doors to greater opportunity. When Alexus began her job at Culver’s on February 15, 2024, she was stepping into a new environment filled with unfamiliar expectations, new responsibilities, and the chance to grow. With personalized support from Sycamore’s supported employment team, she learned each step of her role, built relationships with co-workers, and pushed through challenges with determination. As she settled into her job, Alexus discovered a level of workplace independence she once thought was out of reach. Over time, her confidence soared. She mastered new tasks, developed a strong work routine, and embraced opportunities to engage with customers and teammates. Her success reflects what supported employment services are designed to do—help individuals with disabilities find purpose, strengthen community connections, and achieve sustainable employment in environments that value their contributions. For Alexus, her job has become more than a paycheck. As she shared, “This job means a lot to me because I get to make friends and interact with others while earning a paycheck. Despite my disability, I get to accomplish things I have always dreamed of.” Her journey highlights the impact of employment supports in helping people reach their goals. With the right tools, coaching, and encouragement, individuals can turn opportunities into accomplishments—and dreams into lifelong milestones. Alexus is living proof of what’s possible when individuals are empowered to succeed.

Sycamore Services is excited to share that several of our residential homes currently have openings for new residents in Central Indiana. These homes offer a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals who want to live more independently while receiving the right level of assistance. Our Residential Services are designed to help people build confidence, learn daily living skills, and enjoy greater freedom in their communities. Each home is thoughtfully arranged to promote accessibility, comfort, and inclusion. Residents benefit from support tailored to their goals—whether that means help with cooking and budgeting, or encouragement to stay active and engaged in the community. We currently have residential openings in Morgan and Hendricks counties . These locations feature bright, spacious homes with a focus on safety, accessibility, and connection. Depending on individual needs, support may include 24-hour staffing or scheduled in-home assistance. Sycamore Services provides services to individuals with Medicaid Waiver funding (CIH, FSW, or TBI)  as well as private-pay options . Our team works closely with each resident to develop personalized plans that promote independence and belonging. If you or someone you know is looking for a supportive, empowering place to live, we’d love to connect. Learn more about our residential program and current openings at www.sycamoreservices.com/ or call 317-745-4715  to reach our team.

Sycamore Services is proud to share exciting news—our organization has successfully completed its annual third-party audit in October 2025 , achieving a clear and unmodified outcome . This audit covers Fiscal Year 2025 , spanning July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025 , and reaffirms Sycamore’s commitment to strong financial practices and robust internal controls. A clear and unmodified result reflects our unwavering dedication to accountability, transparency, and mission-driven stewardship. Behind the numbers is a story of teamwork and integrity. Our Finance team and staff across departments worked diligently to ensure accurate reporting and sound processes that align with both regulatory standards and Sycamore’s values. Their attention to detail helps ensure that every dollar entrusted to us directly supports our mission—helping people with disabilities and others in need live more independent and fulfilling lives. Congratulations to everyone who contributed to this achievement! Together, we continue to strengthen our foundation and advance Sycamore’s mission with excellence.

Halloween fun is right around the corner—and this year, we’re keeping it friendly, festive, and inclusive for everyone! Join us on Monday, October 28th  at the Sycamore Opportunity Center  (1285 E. Main Street, Danville) for our Sensory-Friendly Happy Haunts House —an event designed especially for those who love the excitement of the season but prefer to skip the scares. At Sycamore Services, we believe everyone deserves to enjoy community traditions in ways that feel safe and comfortable. That’s why our Happy Haunts House features no jumps, flashing lights, loud sounds, or spooky surprises —just fun, smiles, and a welcoming environment for all ages and sensory needs. This free community event is a great way to celebrate the season with friends, family, and neighbors in an inclusive space filled with creativity and joy. Whether you’re a child, adult, or family looking for a sensory-friendly Halloween option, we’d love for you to join us! 🕓 When:  Tuesday, October 28, 2025 📍 Where:  Sycamore Opportunity Center, 1285 E. Main St., Danville 💜 Cost:  Free and open to the public We can’t wait to see you there for some fright-free fun!

When Stephanie Dustin  left the management industry in 2022, she had no idea her next chapter would bring so much purpose and fulfillment. That all changed when she met a Sycamore Services participant through Teresa Kunkle , who supported that individual in their workplace. As Stephanie got to know the participant, she was deeply moved by the confidence, joy, and sense of belonging that meaningful employment provided. Learning more about Sycamore’s mission to empower people with disabilities to achieve independence, she felt an instant calling to be part of that impact. Three and a half years later, Stephanie continues to bring that same passion to her work every day. As an Employment Consultant with Sycamore Services , Stephanie manages a caseload of individuals, helping each person take steps toward their goals and dreams for long-term success. Her days are as diverse as the people she supports—sometimes spent helping individuals develop job skills or explore community opportunities, other times spent collaborating with employers and Vocational Rehabilitation to create meaningful job matches. “My favorite part about working at Sycamore Services is meeting all the individuals we serve and watching them grow into their own independence,” Stephanie shared. “It’s so rewarding to see their confidence build and their goals come to life.” Stephanie’s work isn’t without challenges. She often helps participants navigate roadblocks like limited transportation, hiring slowdowns, or the disappointment of not landing a desired position. But even through those moments, she finds inspiration. “It’s not just about helping someone find a job,” she said. “It’s about making sure the opportunity fits who they are and what they need to thrive.” That deep empathy is rooted in Stephanie’s lifelong desire to create spaces where people of all abilities feel valued. Before joining Sycamore, she owned a 23-acre farm in Morgan County  that she was transforming into a nonprofit organization—a welcoming space for individuals and families with intellectual disabilities to connect, garden, interact with animals, and build friendships in a safe and supportive environment. Though that dream is currently on pause, Stephanie hopes to one day revive it and continue growing her vision of inclusion, community, and connection. Outside of work, Stephanie is a proud mom of two—her 12-year-old son and 9-year-old daughter—both honor roll students who share her love of adventure, gardening, and giving back. Together with their dog, Sky, they find joy in the simple things and live each day with gratitude. As we celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) , Stephanie’s story reminds us why this work matters. Her dedication reflects Sycamore’s mission to create opportunities where every person—regardless of ability—can find purpose, independence, and belonging. Through her compassion and commitment, Stephanie is not only helping individuals find jobs; she’s helping them discover their place in the world.

October 2025  —As the nation observes the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)  this October, communities and organizations are spotlighting the critical role that work plays in promoting independence, dignity, and inclusion for people with disabilities ( U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Disability Employment Policy ). A Snapshot: Employment & Disability in America While strides have been made in recent years, employment disparities remain stark. In 2024, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the employment-population ratio  for people with a disability stood at 22.7 percent , compared to 65.5 percent  for people without a disability ( BLS, 2025 ). The unemployment rate  for people with disabilities was 7.5 percent —nearly double that of those without disabilities (3.8 percent). Over the past decade, the labor force participation rate for people with disabilities has shown gradual improvement. In 2023, it reached 24.2 percent , representing continued growth in opportunities for inclusive employment ( BLS, 2024 ). By mid-2024, federal data suggested that the employment rate for working-age people with disabilities had risen to approximately 38 percent , reflecting long-term progress while underscoring persistent gaps ( U.S. Department of Labor, 2024 ). These figures highlight both the achievements and the challenges still facing workers with disabilities—demonstrating that while opportunity has expanded, barriers remain. Why Employment and Community Integration Matter Employment is about more than earning a paycheck. For people with disabilities, it represents a bridge to community integration , independence, and social belonging. A job fosters self-determination, builds skills, and encourages the kind of social connection that helps individuals feel valued in their communities. When people with disabilities and those without work side by side, workplaces become spaces for growth, empathy, and mutual learning. Inclusion through employment helps break down stereotypes and shows that everyone has unique strengths to offer. Patti Sebanc, Director of Employment Services at Sycamore Services , explains it best: “When we recognize ability over disability, we unlock potential, foster inclusion, and build workplaces where everyone can thrive.” Her words capture not only the spirit of NDEAM, but also the heart of Sycamore’s mission to build inclusive communities across Indiana. Sycamore’s Commitment: Employment as a Pathway to Belonging This month, Patti Sebanc reflects on her 33 years leading employment initiatives at Sycamore Services: “This month, I reflect with pride and gratitude on my 33 years working in the Employment program at Sycamore Services. Over the past year alone, our team has supported more than 200 individuals in achieving integrated competitive employment—a milestone that speaks to the power of opportunity and inclusion. Watching the people we support grow in independence, gain new skills, and build meaningful relationships in their communities continues to be one of the most rewarding parts of my journey. Every success story reminds me why this work matters—and why we must keep advocating for a future where everyone has the chance to thrive.” Patti Sebanc, Director of Employment, Youth, and Therapeutic Services Sycamore’s Employment Services team goes far beyond job placement. Its comprehensive approach includes: Person-centered planning  — matching jobs to each person’s strengths, interests, and goals Supported employment  — offering coaching, training, and workplace supports Employer partnerships  — helping businesses build accessible, inclusive environments Long-term support  — ensuring individuals have the resources they need to grow and retain employment Through these initiatives, Sycamore empowers people with disabilities not only to find employment, but also to build lasting, meaningful careers that deepen their connection to the community. Looking Ahead: Building Inclusive Workplaces for All As we celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month , we’re reminded that inclusion is a collective responsibility. Continued progress depends on: Closing the employment gap between people with and without disabilities Expanding access to high-quality, integrated jobs Supporting accommodations and flexible work environments Increasing employer education and inclusion training Strengthening advocacy and inclusive hiring policies For Sycamore Services, every job placement is more than a statistic—it’s a success story that changes lives, strengthens communities, and reinforces our shared belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive . References U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Persons with a Disability: Labor Force Characteristics — 2024.” BLS News Release , February 2025. https://www.bls.gov/news.release/disabl.nr0.htm U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Labor Force Participation Rate 24.2 Percent for People with a Disability in 2023.” TED: The Economics Daily , February 2024. https://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2024/labor-force-participation-rate-24-2-percent-for-people-with-a-disability-in-2023.htm U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Disability Employment Policy. “National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM).” dol.gov , 2025. https://www.dol.gov/agencies/odep/initiatives/ndeam U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Policy Development and Research. “Trendlines: October 2024 — Disability Employment Data.” dol.gov , 2024. https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/ETA/opder/DASP/Trendlines/posts/2024_10/Trendlines_October_2024.html