People with intellectual and developmental disabilities face significant barriers to meaningful employment. In Illinois, just 10-15% of those seeking competitive, integrated jobs are employed. Stigma and outdated misconceptions around this specific population’s abilities often are to blame for a reluctance to hire. Studies show that with planning and job-specific training, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (“I/DD”) are reliable and effective employees.
These candidates need a chance to demonstrate their commitment and skills to then win over their employers with their accountability and competency! You can help by spreading the word about the benefits of hiring these talented candidates to local businesses, community leaders, and employers. If these Top Ten Reasons to Hire a Resident from Weston Bridges aren’t enough, consider the Work Opportunity Tax Credit as a financial incentive to consider hiring a person with disabilities.
Our friends at Weston Bridges in Aurora, which is a residence for those with I/DD and low support needs, are working to address this hiring gap. By developing individual job plans, training, and routine, and removing other barriers like reliable transportation, they are arming their residents with tools for success. These tactics are the foundation of agencies at large who support the I/DD population.
How can you help?
- If your child has a disability and works, share his or her success story on social media or in your circles. Sharing works to dispel outdated misconceptions.
- Inform those responsible for hiring about the financial incentives for employing a person with disabilities. Opportunities to save on taxes can get people’s attention!
- Introduce employers to local organizations such as Weston Bridges, vocational rehabilitation agencies (many of our clients have found success with Parent’s Alliance Employment Project, Autonomy Works, just to name a few!) and workforce development boards.
Our community is ready to work and the tools for success are at their fingertips. Let’s spread the word to employers and hiring managers to open doors and let our candidates shine in the workplace!