Celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month: Spotlight on Sara McHenry

This October, The Arc Pikes Peak Region joins organizations across the country in honoring National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). It is a time to celebrate the contributions of employees with disabilities and to highlight the importance of inclusive workplaces.

One of the brightest examples of this spirit is Sara McHenry, who recently celebrated her 15th year working at arc Thrift Stores. Sara, who has Down syndrome, has been part of the Arc family since 2010, beginning her career at the Uintah location under the guidance of Susan Hubbard. Over the years, she has built not just a career but also a strong community of supportive co-workers and leaders whom she deeply values.

“I love it here,” Sara says, smiling as she talks about her team and her three bosses. She works Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, and says that the friendships she has built with her co-workers make each shift fun and meaningful.

A Dedicated and Skilled Worker

Sara is responsible for sorting and hanging clothes, and her productivity is remarkable. She can hang and organize two full rows of clothing in just one hour. On the day of her interview, she was working on infant boys’ clothing with her usual focus and care. Sara also brings her skills home, proudly managing her own laundry without being asked.

Her dedication has not gone unnoticed. In 2025, after reaching her 15-year milestone, Sara was promoted to Protection Supervisor, a role that has further boosted her confidence and affirmed her value within the organization.

Strengths and Wisdom

When asked about her strengths, Sara is quick to name them: listening carefully to her bosses, working hard, and staying focused. She even keeps one headphone in while leaving the other ear free so she can hear instructions.

She also has thoughtful advice for others with disabilities who are just starting out in the workforce:
“Ask for help! There are always nice people who can help you figure out what you need to do. I’ll be here to help you.”

Sara also hopes people understand that sometimes employees with disabilities may need a little patience.
“Sometimes I don’t know where certain things are because I don’t work in those departments. I’ll go and ask for help to find an item. Sometimes I just need people to be patient while I figure it out.”

A Role Model for Inclusion

Beyond her strong work ethic, Sara is known for her positive energy and love of dancing, which brings joy to her team. Her story demonstrates how inclusive employment empowers individuals with disabilities to thrive, contribute, and lead with confidence.

As we reflect on National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Sara’s journey is a powerful reminder of what is possible when workplaces create opportunities for all. Her success is not only her own. It is also a testament to the values of respect, patience, and community that arc Thrift Stores and The Arc Pikes Peak Region champion every day.