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July is Disability Pride Month, a time to honor the strength, resilience, and individuality of people with disabilities. It commemorates the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in July 1990—a landmark civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities and ensures access, equity, and opportunity.
At Community Based Services (CBS), Disability Pride Month is more than a celebration—it’s a reflection of our mission to promote dignity, independence, and joy for people of all abilities. This year, we’re shining a light on two trailblazers who exemplify what it means to live with pride, purpose, and possibility.
Meet Erin H.
Erin is not only thriving—she’s soaring. She’s been working at Materion, a global materials company, where she plays an essential role scanning product orders and ensuring they’re accurately entered into the system. Erin landed the job through CBS’s Supported Employment Program and quickly mastered her responsibilities with the guidance of a job coach.
But Erin doesn’t stop there. She also greets every visitor to CBS with professionalism as the front desk receptionist. Erin’s dedication to both of her roles speaks volumes about her drive and enthusiasm.
When asked what she’s most proud of in her life, her answer comes with a beaming smile:
“Being an Auntie to my one-year-old nephew. It’s really great. I see him a lot. We watch movies together when he’s awake. I like to be there for him.”
Erin’s story is one of success not just in the workplace but in family life and love. It’s a reminder that pride in one’s identity includes the relationships we nurture and the roles we cherish.
Meet John B.
If you’ve visited CBS or purchased our handmade Good Reasons dog treats, you’ve likely crossed paths with John. As both a receptionist and dog treat baker, John’s energy, work ethic, and positive spirit light up every room he enters.
When asked what he’s most proud of, his answer is simple yet powerful:
“Work.”
John takes pride in earning a paycheck, building professional skills, and being part of a team. And he uses his earnings to enjoy another one of his passions—travel. A seasoned globetrotter, Jon has explored Paris, Hawaii, Jamaica, and Bermuda, always drawn to destinations by the water.
His sense of independence and adventure reflects the very essence of Disability Pride: self-determination, empowerment, and joy.
Why Disability Pride Month Matters
Disability Pride Month is a time to celebrate people like Erin and John—people who break stereotypes, contribute meaningfully to their communities, and show us all the value of inclusion.
It’s not about overcoming disability—it’s about embracing it as an identity and honoring the diversity it brings to the world. It’s about visibility, equity, and the right to be seen, heard, and respected.
At CBS, we believe every person should have the opportunity to discover what makes them proud. Through meaningful work, supportive services, and authentic community, we’re helping people achieve exactly that. Learn more about our services here.
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