neba

Meaningful employment can create opportunities for confidence, independence, and connection — but employment gaps still exist for people with disabilities.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2025:

• 22.8% of people with disabilities were employed
• 65.2% of people without disabilities were employed
• Workers with disabilities were more likely to work in service, healthcare support, and office-related occupations

These numbers highlight why inclusive hiring, accessible workplaces, and employment supports matter. Meaningful employment helps individuals build skills, strengthen confidence, and contribute to their communities.

Creating opportunity benefits everyone.

At neba, we believe independence looks different for everyone — and that meaningful employment can be a powerful step toward confidence, connection, and self-direction.

Every day, we work alongside individuals as they build skills, discover strengths, and pursue goals that matter to them. Employment is more than a paycheck. It’s the opportunity to make choices, contribute to a community, and create a future with greater independence and possibility.

That’s why neba exists: to help people find meaningful opportunities and the support they need to succeed in them.

Reliable transportation can make a big difference when it comes to employment, independence, and staying connected to the community.

This month, we’re grateful for the tools and services that help people get where they need to go with greater confidence and flexibility.

Helpful transportation resources include:

• Google Maps Transit — open Google Maps, enter your destination, and select the train/bus icon for public transit directions
• Transit app — download the free Transit app from the App Store or Google Play for live bus and train tracking
• ADA paratransit services — search your local transit provider’s website for “ADA paratransit” to learn about eligibility and scheduling
• Reduced fare transit programs — check your regional bus or train provider’s website for discounts for riders with disabilities, older adults, or students
• Travel training programs — many local transit systems offer free support to help individuals learn routes and ride independently

Access to transportation helps create access to opportunity—and every step toward independence matters.

NEW: The results from Senate Budget week are here. Here's a quick summary of what you need to know. Maura Sullivan Nora Bent Emilia Niyangoda

Read more: https://thearcofmass.org/post/fy27-state-budget-update-senate-budget-week-and-amendment-recap/

On this Memorial Day, we honor the courage and sacrifice of those who gave their lives in service to our nation. 🇺🇸

At neba, we reflect on the values they fought to protect: opportunity, dignity, and the strength of our nation. These principles guide our mission, and we remember with gratitude and continue our work with purpose.

NOTE: neba office will be closed today, Monday, May 25, in observance of Memorial Day.

Today, we remember. Always, we honor.

[Image is of an American flag waving beneath a blue sky. Text reads: "Rember & Honor" and the neba logo is placed in the top right corner.]

Building independence includes building financial confidence.

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to strengthen your skills, these free tools can help:

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau — budgeting tools and financial guides
• MyMoney.gov — easy-to-follow basics on saving, budgeting, and credit

We’re grateful for the tools that help individuals take steps toward greater independence and stability—one step at a time.

Opportunity grows through collaboration.

We’re grateful for the employers, community organizations, and partners who work alongside us to create meaningful pathways forward. Your commitment to inclusion and opportunity makes lasting impact possible.

Together, we’re building stronger communities—one connection at a time.