October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month and presents a valuable opportunity for us to explore accessibility and inclusivity initiatives. By championing these efforts, Main Street organizations can play a pivotal role in bridging employment gaps and enhancing opportunities and sense of belonging for all community members.
Hilton Village Main Street (HVMS), a neighborhood commercial district in the City of Newport News, has been working tirelessly to further accessibility and inclusivity in their small village. One of their key initiatives includes advancing employment opportunities for uniquely-abled persons through the promotion of the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), a federal tax credit available to employers who invest in job seekers from certain targeted groups.
HVMS’ Executive Director, JB Brown-Crowley, is intimately aware of the many challenges uniquely-abled individuals and families face—particularly when living and working in a historic district. And, she is aware of available resources and has been able to point business owners and community members in the right direction.
Indulge Bakery and Bistro, located on Warwick Boulevard (Hilton Village’s Main Street), has worked closely with JB to create employment opportunities that align with the available tax credit. Indulge hired a young, uniquely-abled village resident as a delivery person and have had an overwhelmingly positive experience. And we can’t overlook We Create at Kreations by Kim, located on Main Street, which has been employing uniquely-abled individuals at their floral and gift shop since opening (many years before HVMS was established).
Unlike larger corporate settings, Main Streets foster a more intimate connection between community members and local businesses, allowing for tailored employment opportunities. Potential employees can easily identify where they might fit in and contribute meaningfully to local businesses, fostering a sense of inclusion and purpose.
“Main Street communities are known to be places of connection. Our hearts, to create a space for all, call us to offer opportunities for everyone to feel that they are an integral piece of the puzzle—making Main Streets everywhere the ideal environment to empower individuals with unique abilities. Here, every contribution is valued, and every talent has a place.”
– JB Brown-Crowley, HVMS Executive Director
But that just scratches the surface of Hilton Village’s many accessibility initiatives. At large outdoor events and festivals, HVMS provides a nursing tent, in partnership with a local doula, that has become a popular sanctuary for breastfeeding mothers. With the support of new community partners, HVMS will expand the nursing tent at the fall festival this year to include a sensory cool down area for children who might be overwhelmed with the sights or sounds of the festival grounds.
At the weekly farmers market, HVMS offers low-sensory kid activities thanks to the dedication of many volunteers—including retired educators and hospital clowns, Martha and Jerry Dodson. Young children can engage in simple, continuous play like a pretend kitchen, along with crafts that can be completed in five (or fewer) steps. Additionally, HVMS offers headphones and earplugs, sponsored by local healthcare providers, to ensure a comfortable experience for everyone.
HVMS continues to work diligently to foster a commercial district that’s accessible to all and is a valuable resource for other Main Street organizations / communities. Earlier this year, JB shared her inspiring story and HVMS’ many initiatives with the larger Main Street America network through a presentation at the 2024 Main Street Now conference in Birmingham, Alabama.
Photo credits: Washi Taylor & Hilton Village Main Street
Virginia Main Street 