Montana Empowerment Center, Inc.

10/24/2025

🌟 October is Disability Employment Awareness Month! 🌟

Today we toured the Trapper Creek Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center — and we were so impressed by the hands-on learning opportunities, supportive staff, and welcoming campus that helps young people build confidence and real-world skills.

Job Corps is a free education and career training program for youth ages 16–24, helping students gain the tools they need for meaningful employment and independent living.

In Montana, students can train close to home at:
🏗️ Anaconda Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center
🌲 Trapper Creek Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center

Both centers offer programs in fields like health care, IT, construction, forestry, and hospitality — plus academic support, housing, and counseling services. Students with disabilities can also receive individualized accommodations and transition planning to ensure success.

💼 For youth with disabilities preparing for adulthood, Job Corps can be an incredible next step toward employment and independence!

🎥 Take a virtual tour of Trapper Creek here: Campus | Virtual Tour
🌐 Learn more about each Montana in comments below.

To learn more about how Job Corps fits into your transition plan, contact us — we’re here to help families explore every pathway to success.

10/23/2025

The October 2nd Edition of EmPowerMe Newsletter 2025 - "Down Syndrome & ADHD Awareness" - https://mailchi.mp/mtempowermentcenter.org/mec-empower-me-newsletter-9300345

10/23/2025

In honor of Disability Employment Mentoring Week, we’re thrilled to share the inspiring story of entrepreneur Christopher Mosser, founder of Bubba's Bundles & Firestarter.

Diagnosed on the autism spectrum at age 3, Christopher’s journey is a powerful example of passion, perseverance, and purpose. With mechanical skill, dedication and the support of his family, he turned his love of working with tools and heavy equipment into a thriving business supplying firewood and kindling across western Montana.

What makes his story truly special:
✅ Christopher is actively involved in building the product — his hands are on the woodsheds, the log-splitters, the deliveries.

✅ The business supports his independence and self-sufficiency, enabling him to earn a salary, save money, and create meaningful work.

✅ A commitment to giving back: 10% of all sales go towards charities supporting autism, community food banks, and global sponsorships.

Christopher’s story reminds us that when we focus not just on “what someone can’t do” but on what they love to do and what they’re good at, incredible outcomes are possible.

As we mark this week dedicated to mentoring and disability employment, let’s take inspiration from Christopher:
• Celebrate the unique strengths and talents people bring to the workforce
• Provide meaningful opportunities and pathways to independence
• Mentor, support, and believe in potential

Please join us in applauding Christopher’s achievements and in helping shine a spotlight on broader inclusion in the workplace. 💪

A natural skill -- a commitment to hard work and follow-through -- is always a good recipe for success. Add to that a love of family and friends, and a generosi

10/21/2025

🎗️ October is ADHD Awareness Month! 🎗️

Every child with ADHD deserves the chance to learn, grow, and thrive in a supportive environment, both at home and at school.

If your child has ADHD, you might be wondering how to make sure their unique needs are met in the classroom. That’s where we come in!

As Montana’s Parent Training and Information Center (PTI), funded by the U.S. Department of Education, we’re here to help families understand their rights and options under IEPs and Section 504 plans.

We can help you:
✅ Learn the difference between an IEP and a 504 Plan
✅ Prepare for school meetings and advocate for supports
✅ Understand accommodations that can help your child succeed
✅ Connect with free local and national resources

You don’t have to navigate ADHD alone, we’re here every step of the way!

Contact us today to schedule a free and confidential consultation.
Together, we can help your child shine.

10/21/2025

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10/20/2025

Check comments for career zoom sessions this week!

🌟 Celebrating 80 Years of National Disability Employment Awareness Month! 🌟

This October, we celebrate the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) partnering with businesses and professionals across the state for Disability Mentoring Week — October 20–24, 2025!

💬 “We’re excited to offer this opportunity for youth and adults with disabilities to experience hands-on career exploration and mentorship,” said DPHHS Director Charlie Brereton. “We’re grateful to the many local businesses that help us celebrate the immense value and talent people with disabilities bring to the workplace.”

This year’s theme — “Celebrating Value and Talent” — highlights the vital contributions of workers with disabilities and encourages fair, accessible employment practices across Montana.

✨ Here’s what’s happening during the week:
✅ Work-Based Learning Experiences — Job shadowing and one-on-one mentoring with professionals in various fields.
✅ Career Workshops — Build your resume, practice interviews, and learn job search strategies.
✅ Panel Discussions — Hear from industry leaders and disability advocates on inclusion and opportunity.
✅ Networking Opportunities — Connect with employers, peers, and mentors statewide.
✅ Employer Training — Learn how to build more welcoming and inclusive workplaces.

👥 Last year, more than 165 students participated from communities across Montana — from Alberton to Missoula — and this year promises to be even bigger!

Let’s continue to celebrate the skills, creativity, and determination that make Montana’s workforce stronger. 💪

10/20/2025

Not All Disabilities Are Visible

Many people think “disability” only means using a wheelchair or walker, but that’s far from true.
A national survey found that 74% of Americans living with a severe disability do not use assistive devices.

Some disabilities like ADHD, dyslexia, autism, anxiety, or chronic health conditions may be invisible, but they can still affect learning, focus, and participation in daily life.
Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), students with both visible and invisible disabilities have the right to an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or other supports that help them succeed in school.



https://invisibledisabilities.org/seminarsandevents/invisible-disabilities-week/

10/18/2025

Montana delegation at the Association of Rural Independent Living Conference (APRIL) in Portland:

Scott Williamson, Tami Hoar, Jean Schroeder, June Hermanson

10/18/2025

The October 2nd Edition of EmPowerMe Newsletter 2025 - "Call to Action for Special Education" - https://mailchi.mp/mtempowermentcenter.org/mec-empower-me-newsletter-9300451

10/17/2025

Last week, nearly all employees at the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) who oversee the implementation of the federal special education law, called the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), received Reduction in Force (RIF) notices. This means their positions are currently scheduled to be completely eliminated on or shortly after December 9th, 2025.

Over the past few days, we have heard from many families that they are deeply concerned about the loss of expertise that supports their children’s education. As Montana’s PTI, we serve as one of the voices of families who rely on OSEP’s guidance and oversight to ensure their children’s rights under IDEA are upheld.

The OSEP staff, many of whom are families of students with disabilities themselves, protect and support children with disabilities, their families, and the states.

MEC wants to make certain that accurate information is shared about the possible effects this RIF could have on ensuring that families, schools, and states receive the services and guidance they need to provide students with disabilities a free, appropriate public education (FAPE).

The IDEA Preservation Coalition is collecting testimonials about this issue. You can provide your testimonial here:
https://forms.gle/Gh4oMoTT7f7eyVR69

If you are concerned about the potential impact of these changes, you can consider signing this petition:
http://bit.ly/IDEASIGN

10/17/2025

Join us at the Trunk or Treat Resource Fair

Come to the MSUB Montana Center for Inclusive Education on Saturday, October 25th, 2025, from 12–2 PM for a fun and inclusive event for all ages!

What to Expect:
Sensory-Friendly Games
Quiet Craft Area
Allergy-Friendly Trick-or-Treat Stations
Resource Booths

Costumes are encouraged, but come as you are!
Admission is FREE (donations welcomed).

Location: MSU Billings – Montana Center for Inclusive Education, Room #122
Contact: melanie.phelps@msubillings.edu or (406) 657-2079

Donations will help support resources for nontraditional learners in the Billings area.

Come celebrate inclusion, community, and Halloween fun in a welcoming space for everyone!

10/16/2025

Happy Boss’s Day to our amazing leader, Heidi Gibson!

Her dedication, vision, and compassion drive our mission forward and empower those around her to grow and succeed.

We’re so grateful for all you do to make our organization stronger and our team feel valued.