RAPID CITY, S.D. – In recognition of National Disability Employment Awareness Month this October, the Workplace Disability Network of the Black Hills is launching new initiatives and interactive training sessions to foster accessible workplaces across Western South Dakota.

WDN Executive Director Heidi Mecham announced the rollout of “Breaking Barriers,” an immersive training event developed in partnership with the Black Hills Special Services Cooperative. Designed for Rapid City business owners, managers, human resources professionals, and staff, the interactive exercise places participants in the position of an employee navigating workplace accommodations, stigma, and structural barriers.

“Our mission is to educate and empower businesses to confidently hire, support, and retain individuals with disabilities,” Mecham said.

WDN provides training and ongoing support to help businesses across nine counties build inclusive environments. Alongside the training, WDN recently launched its new Accessible Workplace Ally Program, presenting its inaugural recognition award to local television station KOTA-TV. The four-level program highlights local businesses successfully implementing accommodations, demonstrating to the broader business community that accessibility is achievable for organizations of any size.

WDN will host two “Breaking Barriers” training sessions in October:

The Rapid City session will be held Tuesday, Oct. 8, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at The Monument, with a registration deadline of Sept. 30.

The Deadwood session will take place Monday, Oct. 14, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at The Lodge in Deadwood, with a registration deadline of Oct. 9.

Seating for both sessions is limited. Rapid City area employers, workforce professionals, and community partners can register for events or learn more about the Ally Program by visiting wdnbh.org/events.