By Sam Ast, Re-Entry Workforce Development Specialist, Goodwill of Western Missouri & Eastern Kansas
There are some unique challenges for how individuals with disabilities choose to conduct their search for work. You might be wondering what the top industries with inclusive practices that support people with disabilities are, or are there available resources that can assist in your job search process? To find answers to these questions and learn more, please keep reading.
Disabilities at Work
A disability can refer to any number of mental or physical impairments. Blindness, deafness, autism, post-traumatic stress, and depression are just a few. Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act pertains to employment and ensures that individuals with impairments are not discriminated against during hiring, promotions, pay, training or social activities at work. Additionally, there are other provisions in this federal civil rights law that provide protections regarding transportation accessibility and business infrastructure accommodations.
As it is with other populations on a larger scale — the elderly, adolescents, the inexperienced, etc. — not all work is suitable for everyone. Finding the right fit is just as important for those with special needs as it is for anybody. While conducting your job search, it is important to keep in mind that many companies have a strong track record of hiring people who require accommodation. By doing some quick research and asking questions during the application and hiring process, you can be sure to get the most up-to-date information, utilize your time efficiently and hopefully, start working quickly. According to Newsweek, there are more than 7.5 million individuals with disabilities working jobs at American companies as of 2023 in industries that run the gamut from food, tech, banking and manufacturing (including retail, community-oriented organizations like Goodwill®).
Furthermore, if you need more help and guidance, most cities host vocational rehabilitation service providers that can help provide tailored guidance for finding training opportunities and work specifically for those requiring more support in this employment journey. Goodwill’s mission support centers across the country provide similar types of assistance and partner with other establishments to fill in any gaps in coverage. Just know, there is an abundance of help available should you want it.
If you currently receive supplemental income or financial benefits, don’t worry. There are always ways to keep busy and earn additional money. Working part-time or volunteering can both be great options.
As always, stay confident in your talent and don’t hesitate to visit a Goodwill career center for support. Please check back to this page often to dive into more topics and explore more ideas in the future. Best of luck in your career endeavors.
