Dollar Bank and Bender Leadership Academy Partnership Empowers Disability Community

Since 2018, Dollar Bank and the Bender Leadership Academy have worked to provide resources and opportunities for young adults with disabilities. This partnership has been rooted in shared values of empowerment, advocacy and inclusion. Over the years, Dollar Bank has supported Bender through financial contributions, volunteer hours and program sponsorship, helping to expand its reach and deepen its impact.

One in four adults in the United States live with a disability, yet systemic barriers often prevent them from accessing education, employment and job placement services tailored to their individual needs.

One of the highlights of this partnership is the annual Disability Mentoring Day, an event designed to inspire and empower high school students with disabilities as they explore career possibilities.

Bender Consulting Services, Inc., was the first non-federal employer to support Disability Mentoring Day nationally. When the Bender Leadership Academy was established formally in 2018, the day was a part of the group of volunteer activities that were carved out as a natural extension of the Academy.

During this special day, students are paired with Dollar Bank employees to shadow them in their roles, observe workplace dynamics and gain valuable insights into potential career paths. The day offers first-hand experience, allowing students to build confidence and envision a future where they can thrive in the workplace.

Dollar Bank employees are involved in the planning of the day’s activities and take the opportunity to reflect on the importance of this partnership.

Hannah Walker, a Senior Recruiter, shared, “Disability Mentoring Day allows us to show these students that there are a wide range of career paths at a bank. It’s powerful to see yourself in a workplace setting. You have a place and belong here.”

Mike Harmon, Vice President of IT Requirements Management, added, “I see the excitement and lessons that this day creates. These kids, who may be viewed as being different, feel welcomed. And it’s also important for employees to understand and gain perspective on challenges, ultimately becoming more accepting themselves.”

Joyce Bender, CEO at Bender Consulting Services, believes Disability Mentoring Day gives students the ability to expand their opportunities by providing them with crucial skills to succeed in the workplace. “Programs like Disability Mentoring Day create an opportunity to develop professional networks and widen understanding of the breadth of career opportunities available in our society,” said Bender.

Disability Mentoring Day is an incredible opportunity to engage with young talent and show students that nothing defines their potential. It's inspiring to see their excitement as they discover new opportunities and realize they have a place in the professional world.

For many students, this day becomes a turning point in their journey toward independence and success. Joyce Bender believes that mentorship is crucial for these students. “Too often, students with disabilities have the bar lowered for them. People may purposefully or unintentionally give young people with disabilities the impression that they should limit their dreams,” said Bender. “Mentors help to inspire and build confidence. These are critical success factors for people who are often left out or left behind.”

There is more work to do to address all barriers to employment with visible or non-apparent disabilities. “The best way to overcome the attitudinal barriers that impact employment for individuals with disabilities of all types is developing a hiring strategy which focuses on including people with disabilities in the talent pool,” said Bender. Inclusion is the first step, however, a focus of both Bender and Dollar Bank.

For Dollar Bank, supporting Bender is more than philanthropy; it’s a commitment to creating a community where everyone has a chance to thrive. Bender is a vital force in the disability community. Their work changes lives, and we are proud to play a role in advancing their mission. This collaboration exemplifies the power of businesses and nonprofits coming together to uplift an underserved community and promote more inclusive workplaces.

As Dollar Bank and Bender look ahead, the focus remains on expanding programs, reaching more individuals, and continuing to address the evolving needs of the disability community. With a shared commitment to creating meaningful change, we are building a future where everyone, regardless of ability, has the tools and the support they need to succeed.

Visit Bender Leadership Academy to learn more about its work and how to get involved in a Disability Mentoring Day.

About Dollar Bank

As the nation's largest mutual bank, Dollar Bank has been empowering the communities and customers we serve for 170 years. Our more than 90 locations throughout Pennsylvania, Maryland, Ohio and Virginia provide a comprehensive range of personal, small business and corporate banking solutions. We continue to invest in our customers and strengthen our communities through financial education programs and partnerships with organizations who share our dedication to building opportunities for all. As of March 2025, Dollar Bank reported total assets of $11.5 billion, total loans of $9.1 billion, and total deposits of $9.5 billion. For more information, visit Dollar.Bank.