How to Find Jobs for the Disabled

It's sometimes difficult for disabled individuals to find jobs. Despite references to "equal opportunity employer" and the American Disabilities Act, there's still widespread prejudice. Keep a positive "can-do" attitude and follow these steps to succeed in your job search.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Take advantage of vocational rehabilitation services. Every state has a VR department that trains disabled individuals and helps them find a job. Push for computer training, which will make you more employable.

2. Contact national and local organizations that help disabled individuals find jobs. Start with the American Association of People with Disabilities They offer an annual mentoring program and publish a list of employment opportunities. Call and ask them about organizations in your local area that can help.

3. Take an internship job at a nonprofit or for-profit organization. The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) has a list of internship opportunities on their website. Demonstrate your work ethic by expressing a willingness to perform duties not included in the job description.

4. Look for a position with the federal government. They claim to be a model for the commercial and nonprofit sectors in disability hiring, so hold them to it! Your state vocational rehabilitation office can help you get noncompetitive federal employment jobs. The U.S. Office of Personnel Management has information about federal jobs for the disabled.

5. Educate employers in your area about the disabled. Many assume disabled individuals can't keep up with job demands. Explain that the employer might need to make accommodations in some cases, it doesn't hinder a disabled person's ability to fulfill assigned duties. You'll be doing yourself and other disabled people a favor.

Tips & Warnings

• A disabled individual must have persistence to find a job. Believe you can do whatever is asked of you and be willing to prove it.
• Networking is important. Get involved with local nonprofit organizations and make connections with people. Let them know what your skills are.
• Research possible tax advantages for companies who hire disabled workers, and show the prospective employer how they will benefit by giving you a chance.

Resources

• Check out JobAccess to find jobs for the disabled.
• Find internship and employment opportunities with AAPD.
• Find information here about federal jobs.

[jlodgesfryer]

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[hlthychoclitnut]

on 1/13/2009 Thanks for How to Find Jobs for the Disabled.I don't think alot of people are aware of this and your resource brings out and can be a psychiatric problem as well as physical.