BackEmployment for People with Disabilities
Posted on 08/13/24 in Independent Living
By Barbara Judah, Director of Benefits and Employment Services at LEAP
Employment can be a goal of Independent Living
Consumers (people with disabilities) often embrace a process of self-discovery that includes an interest in pursuing a job. A first step starts with the consumer determining their skills and interests which can then be matched to employer needs. Next, an individualized plan of action is devised which will lead to employment that is appropriate and meaningful for that person.
A great match happens when consumer skills and interests also meet employer requirements for their position. To maximize success, a job coach can help make the new job a smooth transition while building the confidence of the consumer. A successful employment process creates a win for the person seeking a new level of independent living and a win for the employer looking for the right candidate in a tight job market.
It's important to remove obstacles.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), about 21 percent of people with a disability in the U.S. were employed during 2022, up from about 19 percent in 2021. However, more progress is still needed to close the employment gap between individuals with disabilities and nondisabled workers. Improvement of company benefit mixes, and a welcoming and supportive culture are certainly key. But it is critical to dispel any stigmas surrounding disabilities and prepare managers to interview, onboard and work with people with disabilities.
Centers for Independent Living (CILs) are employment advocates.
These are community-based, cross-disability, non-profit organizations that are designed and operated by people with disabilities. They function under the strict philosophy of consumer control. People with all types of disabilities directly govern and staff these organizations. And the strength of this movement has resulted in 403 CILs nationwide. These local centers have been crucial in the success of the independent living movement.
LEAP is a CIL serving Greater Cleveland
This CIL was founded in 1981 by Doris Brennan who had become a quadriplegic after a tragic automobile accident in 1954. She was the first executive director and had already established herself as a powerhouse in the Independent Living Movement in Ohio. Today LEAP staff and board members continue to provide services and advocacy in support of the Independent Living Movement. They work with any consumer who is adapting to a disability or is seeking to increase their independence.
Helping People with Disabilities find Employment is Crucial.
People with disabilities (consumers) want to be part of the community and the work of CILs is their key to independent living. Along with many other programs, employment services give consumers an opportunity to have a job of their own while helping solve workforce shortages.