VIDEO: Willing to Work

It’s a jungle out there for job-seekers with disabilities!  Wilbert Johnson tells us how he was able to get his dream job and provides tips for fellow job-seekers.

In observance of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) this October, we encourage schools, workplaces, and communities to consider how they can further career development opportunities for people with disabilities.

Not Sure Where to Start? Check out the list of resources for job-seekers below!

U.S. Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies
These agencies assist individuals with disabilities to prepare for, obtain, maintain, or regain employment.

Ticket to Work
This service provides free job support to people that are 18 through 64 years old and receive SSI or SSDI.

Workforce Recruitment Program (WRP)
This recruitment and referral program connects employers with college students and recent graduates with disabilities for summer or permanent jobs.

Informational Interviewing
Learn information regarding an industry, a career path, or an employer by interviewing a professional in the field.

Finding a Job That’s Right for You
Resources on searching for jobs, writing a resume and cover letter, interviewing, and more.Disability

Mentoring Day Events
A regularly updated list of events across the U.S.

Applying for a Job

Gain Interview Confidence!

Reasonable Accommodation for the Application Process
Information about speaking about your accommodation needs with a potential employer.

Searchable Online Accommodation Resource (SOAR)
Searchable database of accommodation ideas for specific disabilities.

Recruiting, Hiring, & Retaining Employees with Disabilities 

Employer Assistance and Resource Network on Disability Inclusion (EARN)
Become a leader in the employment and advancement of people with disabilities.

JAN Workplace Accommodation Information
Resources for private businesses, federal employers, state and local government employers, and more.

Partnership on Employment & Accessible Technology (PEAT)
A multi-faceted initiative to foster collaboration and action around accessible technology in the workplace.

Building an Inclusive Workforce
A four-step reference guide to recruiting, hiring, and retaining employees with disabilities.

Other Resources

NDRN #NDEAM 2018
Wilbert, along with other disabled people, share their stories about employment.

Beyond NDEAM
Ideas for promoting inclusivity throughout the year.

USBLN Workplace Disability Inclusion Assessment Tool (page 3)
A checklist to evaluate inclusion in marketing, recruitment, supplying, and more.

Inclusive Internship Programs
Guidelines for establishing, implementing, and evaluating internship programs.

U.S. federal and state government financial incentives

Programs, Guides, & Videos

Creating an inclusive career development program

Bridging the employment gap for students with disabilities

Access to the Future: Preparing Students with Disabilities for Careers

Storyteller Updates

Louisiana State University Human Development Center article

,

Rooted in Rights exists to amplify the perspectives of the disability community. Blog posts and storyteller videos that we publish and content we re-share on social media do not necessarily reflect the opinions or values of Rooted in Rights nor indicate an endorsement of a program or service by Rooted in Rights. We respect and aim to reflect the diversity of opinions and experiences of the disability community. Rooted in Rights seeks to highlight discussions, not direct them. Learn more about Rooted In Rights