Employers hire disabled individuals using a process that is similar to hiring any other candidate. However, there might be some additional considerations and accommodations to ensure an inclusive and accessible workplace. Here are some steps employers typically take when hiring disabled individuals:
Equal Opportunity Employment Policy: Employers should have an Equal Opportunity Employment (EEO) policy in place that emphasizes their commitment to hiring individuals based on their skills, qualifications, and suitability for the job, regardless of disability. This policy ensures that all applicants, including disabled individuals, have an equal chance in the hiring process.
Accessible Job Postings: Employers should ensure that their job postings are accessible and do not discriminate against candidates with disabilities. Avoid using language that could inadvertently exclude disabled individuals from applying.
Accommodations During the Application Process: Employers may need to provide accommodations during the application process to ensure that disabled candidates have an equal opportunity to apply. This could include providing alternative formats for applications or interview materials.
Interview and Assessment Considerations: During interviews and assessments, focus on the candidate's skills, qualifications, and ability to perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodations. Avoid asking questions about the candidate's disability or health, unless directly related to job requirements and accommodations.
Reasonable Accommodations: If a disabled candidate is offered the job, employers should discuss reasonable accommodations that will enable the individual to perform their job duties effectively. Reasonable accommodations are adjustments or modifications made to the workplace or job processes that do not impose undue hardship on the employer.
Inclusive Onboarding and Training: Ensure that the onboarding process and training programs are inclusive and considerate of the needs of all employees, including those with disabilities.
Promoting a Supportive Workplace Culture: Foster an inclusive workplace culture that encourages diversity and respects the contributions of all employees. This includes raising awareness about disability-related issues and promoting disability inclusion programs.
Consulting with Experts and Organizations: Employers can seek guidance and support from disability employment service providers, disability organizations, and vocational rehabilitation agencies. These experts can help employers understand the needs of disabled candidates and provide advice on accommodations.
ADA Compliance: In the United States, employers must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which prohibits discrimination against disabled individuals in employment. Employers should be familiar with ADA requirements to ensure compliance.
Training Hiring Managers and HR Staff: Provide training to hiring managers and human resources staff on disability etiquette, reasonable accommodations, and the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
By following these steps and embracing a commitment to disability inclusion, employers can create an accessible and welcoming work environment where disabled individuals are given equal opportunities to contribute their skills and talents.
Promoting disability inclusion in the workplace and providing creative programs and activities for disabled individuals can lead to a more diverse and supportive environment. Here are some creative ideas for employing the disabled and offering inclusive programs and activities, along with links to relevant resources:
Remote Work Opportunities: Offer remote work options for disabled individuals, which can provide flexibility and accommodate various needs. Resource: Disability:IN - Remote Work and Telecommuting
Mentorship Programs: Establish mentorship programs that pair disabled employees with experienced colleagues to provide guidance and support. Resource: MENTOR - Mentoring for People with Disabilities
Inclusive Internship Programs: Create inclusive internship opportunities that focus on skills development and professional growth for disabled students and graduates. Resource: Emerging Leaders Internship Program
Art and Creative Expression Workshops: Organize art workshops and creative expression sessions for disabled individuals to explore their artistic talents and self-expression. Resource: VSA - Arts & Disability
Adaptive Sports Leagues: Collaborate with local organizations to establish adaptive sports leagues or tournaments, promoting physical activity and teamwork. Resource: Disabled Sports USA - Adaptive Sports Chapters
Innovation and Tech Incubators: Create innovation hubs and tech incubators that focus on accessibility and assistive technology solutions for disabled individuals. Resource: Microsoft AI for Accessibility
Performing Arts Inclusion Programs: Partner with theater or dance groups to create inclusive performing arts programs that showcase disabled talents. Resource: Very Special Arts - Inclusive Arts Programs
Disability Film Festivals: Host disability film festivals to showcase films that promote disability awareness and representation. Resource: Superfest Disability Film Festival
Outdoor Adventure Programs: Collaborate with adventure and outdoor organizations to offer inclusive outdoor activities and camping experiences. Resource: No Barriers - Accessible Outdoor Adventures
Accessible Culinary Training: Offer culinary training programs that accommodate disabled individuals, preparing them for careers in the food industry. Resource: ABLE to Cook - Culinary and Life Skills
Services: WCTWC provides Vocational Rehabilitation Services that assist people with disabilities in preparing for, finding, and maintaining employment. They offer vocational counseling, training, job placement assistance, and other supportive services. Website: https://twc.texas.gov/
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) - Travelers Aid DFW - Wings for All:The Wings for All program at DFW airport is designed to help individuals with disabilities, including developmental disabilities, learn and practice the process of air travel. This initiative can foster independence and confidence, enhancing their employability. Website: https://dfwairport.com/
Ability Connection Texas:Ability Connection Texas offers a variety of programs and services for people with disabilities, including employment and job training services to help them gain and maintain employment. Website: https://www.abilityconnectiontexas.org/
Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County:Workforce Solutions offers specialized services for job seekers with disabilities, including job coaching, vocational training, and access to job fairs and employment opportunities. Website: https://workforcesolutions.net/
The Arc of Dallas:The Arc of Dallas offers employment services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping them find meaningful work opportunities. Website: https://www.arcdallas.org/
Texas Workforce Solutions - Vocational Rehabilitation Services (Fort Worth Office):This office provides services and support to individuals with disabilities to help them prepare for, find, and maintain employment in the Fort Worth area. Website: https://twc.texas.gov/
National MS Society - North Texas Chapter:For individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the National MS Society's North Texas Chapter may offer resources and support for those seeking employment. Website: https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Chapters/TXN
Employment Services for Adults with Disabilities at Goodwill Industries of Fort Worth:Goodwill Industries of Fort Worth provides employment services and job training for individuals with disabilities, assisting them in finding suitable employment opportunities. Website: https://www.goodwillfortworth.org/
These are just a few examples of programs and organizations that offer employment assistance to individuals with disabilities in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. It's important to contact these organizations directly to learn more about their specific services and eligibility criteria. Additionally, government agencies like the Texas Workforce Commission and local disability advocacy groups can be excellent resources for finding employment programs for disabled individuals in the DFW area.
There are numerous creative programs and activities available locally and globally that cater to disabled individuals, promoting inclusion, self-expression, and personal growth. Here are some examples of such programs:
Adaptive Sports and Recreation: Many local communities offer adaptive sports programs, such as wheelchair basketball, para-swimming, adaptive skiing, and more. These programs help individuals with disabilities participate in sports and physical activities tailored to their needs.
Dance and Movement Classes: Adaptive dance and movement classes enable individuals with physical disabilities to experience the joy of dance and creative expression in a supportive environment.
Theater and Drama Workshops: Drama programs for disabled individuals offer a platform for self-confidence, communication skills, and storytelling through acting and theater performances.
Creative Writing Workshops: Writing workshops help individuals with disabilities express themselves through poetry, short stories, or journaling.
Therapeutic Horseback Riding: Also known as equine-assisted therapy, this program involves interacting with horses to promote physical and emotional well-being.
Gardening and Horticulture Programs: Horticultural therapy offers therapeutic benefits through gardening and connecting with nature.
Accessible Travel Programs: Certain organizations arrange accessible travel experiences, allowing disabled individuals to explore the world comfortably and inclusively.
Community Art Exhibitions: Local art galleries and community centers may host art exhibitions featuring works created by disabled artists, promoting their talent and creativity.
Inclusive Cooking Classes: Cooking classes designed for disabled individuals can teach culinary skills and promote independence in the kitchen.
Photography Classes: Adaptive photography classes provide accessible equipment and techniques for individuals with disabilities to express their creativity through photography.
ABUNDANT LIFE HCS
214-330-2222
hcsintexas.comAbundant Life provides home and community-based services that help individuals with learning disabilities and their families in the comfort of their own homes. They understand that families know more about their loved ones than they do and incorporate a family’s goals and experiences into their programs.
ADD/LD PARENT SUPPORT GROUP OF COLLIN COUNTY
972-396-1216SSCaroline@aol.comThis support group hold meetings at the First United Methodist Church of Allen which features guest speakers videos and information for parents of developmentally disabled children.
THE ARC OF DALLAS
214-634-9810
www.arcdallas.orgThe Dallas chapter of ARC serves as a voice for children with disabilities and their families in the areas of education and workforce rights. They seek to empower people with developmental and intellectual disabilities in order to improve their quality of life.
ASSOCIATION FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING (AFIL)
214-351-0798
www.afildfw.orgFor parents whose children will be finishing school AFIL is a great program to get them ready to live more independent lives by offering them a half-way home and life skills to help them transition into independence.
AVID QUALITY CARE
972-346-4144
www.avidqualitycare.comAvid focuses on caring for an individual’s emotional social physical and intellectual needs in order to enhance their quality of life. They provide HCS residential and skill development assistance to individuals of all ages.
BIRTH INJURY JUSTICE CENTER
855-244-5350
www.childbirthinjuries.comThe Birth Injury Justic Center was created as a helpful resource focused on victims of birth injuries and their families. Their mission is to provide legal information and guidance and serve all families with disabilities caused by physical birth injuries.
CEREBRAL PALSY GROUP
321-456-9875
www.cerebralpalsygroup.com/cerebral-palsy/Cerebral Palsy Group is here to provide free educational information and support to those who have been affected by cerebral palsy. Cerebral Palsy is an umbrella term that refers to a group of disorders affecting a person’s ability to move. Cerebral Palsy Group is an online resource that brings information directly to you in a helpful way.
COMMUNITY FOR PERMANENT SUPPORTED HOUSING
txcpsh.org CPSH collaborates with parents property owners all levels of government and the larger community in North Texas to establish safer more affordable housing options for adult loved ones with special needs. Housing created through CPSH is not a traditional group home but an innovative approach to affordable sustainable housing for people with special needs.
DHI (DISABILITY HELP INC)
800-670-6274www.disabilityhelpinc.comDHI is an organization that provides assistance to people with disabilities in getting benefits from social security. Their services include assistance with filing claims representing claimants in hearings and answering SSI questions.
EASTER SEALS OF GREATER DALLAS
817-332-7171
https://ntx.easterseals.com/site/PageServer?pagename=TXNW_homepageThis is the local office of Easter Seals a national organization which provides advocacy and education services for disabled persons.
FRISCO AREA LISTENING AND LEARNING
972-596-0035
www.thefriscolisteningcenter.comListening and Learning offers children a chance to improve their focus reading social skills auditory processing and general classroom performance helping children improve their education and overall quality of life. Services include both private tutoring and group activities.
972-853-1175
www.happyhandslearning.com/node/150Happy Hands provides inclusive learning and social opportunities for children with special needs. Their programs often include children with typical learning abilities to better teach functional social and life skills to children with learning disabilities.
INDEPENDENT STEPS
469-600-4336
www.independentsteps.comIndependent Steps provides rehabilitation services in the Dallas-Fort Worth area for children and adults with cerebral palsy multiple sclerosis Parkinson’s disease brain injury or post-stroke conditions. We specialize in the Conductive Education methodology which is aimed at rebuilding the mental processes and cognitive skills needed to overcome basic challenges such as learning to roll crawl sit stand walk eat write and become potty trained.
THE LEARNING CENTER OF NORTH TEXAS
817-336-0808
www.tlcnt.orgTLC offers affordable accessible and practical resources and services to people with learning disabilities. They offer services to help kids develop study practices and strategies to overcome their individual learning challenges.
METROCARE SERVICES
214-743-1200
www.metrocareservices.orgMetrocare is a nonprofit organization which serves people with developmental disabilities mental illness and sever emotional problems. They value integrity quality diversity and perseverance when serving families in the DFW area.
MHMR (MENTAL HEALTH MENTAL RETARDATION)
817-569-4300 www.mhmrtc.orgMHMR has a multitude of mental health and developmental learning programs to assist disabled people of all ages. Their services include an ECI program for children under the age of 3 as well as Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities programs for those older than 3 years of age.
TOUCH OF CLASS
Dallas: 972-918-0612Fort Worth: 817-541-9435
www.touchofclass.netA Touch of Class offers in-home care for people with disabilities including various forms of therapy respite and supported employment among others. They are approved for CLASS PHC MDCP and DBMB care for qualified individuals and have two locations in the DFW area.
TEXAS RESOURCES
THE ARC OF TEXAS
www.thearcoftexas.orgThe ARC is a great resource that promotes advocacy education and independent living. They also host some excellent conferences and keep you updated on legislative issues and government benefits for people with disabilities.
CSHCN (CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL HEALTHCARE NEEDS)
800-252-8023
www.dshs.state.tx.us/cshcn/default.shtmAs part of the Department of Health CSHCN provides case management and support for family-centered community based strategies for improving quality of life for children with special health care needs.
DISABILITY RIGHTS TEXAS
800-252-9108
www.disabilityrightstx.orgDisability Rights Texas is an advocacy organization which fights discrimination and negative stigmas regarding disabilities and is the federally designated legal protection and advocacy agency for Texans with disabilities.
ECI (EARLY CHILDHOOD INTERVENTION)
800-628-5115
www.dars.state.tx.us/ecisA division of the Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services ECI is a statewide program for families with children birth to three with disabilities and developmental delays. ECI supports families to help their children reach their potential through developmental services. Services are provided by a variety of local agencies and organizations across Texas.
FEDERAL AND STATE REGULATIONS AND COMMISSIONER’S RULES
512-463-9414
www.tea.state.tx.us/index2.aspx?id=2147497444The Texas Education Agency breaks down all special education laws currently in effect in Texas including Federal regulations and additional rules for Texas.
SPECIAL EDUCATION MONITORING AND REVIEW PROCEDURES
www.tea.state.tx.us/index2.aspx?id=2147495552&menu_id=2147483703&menu_id2=2147483712This page summarizes how special education programs are monitored to make sure your child is getting the support he or she needs; It is a good short read to help parents familiarize themselves with monitoring procedures.
TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF AGING AND DISABILITY SERVICES
512-438-3011
www.dads.state.tx.usDADS is an agency that administers long-term services and support for aging and disabled people in Texas. They have extensive resources and information about assisted living as well as rules and statutes for people with disabilities.
TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF ASSISTIVE AND REHABILITATIVE SERVICES
DARS Inquiries line: 800-628-5115
www.dars.state.tx.usDARS provides advocacy for Texans of all ages who are deaf or hard of hearing. DARS also provides services and programs for Texans of all ages who are blind or visually impaired including transition services for those aged 13-22 as well as assistance in vocational rehabilitation and job counseling for Texans with disabilities (all ages).
TEXAS PARENT TO PARENT
512-458-8600 or 866-896-6001
www.txP2P.orgTexas Parent to Parent is a statewide non-profit organization developed for parents by parents. It provides parent-to-parent matches support information website resources a newsletter training.
NATIONAL RESOURCES
CEREBRAL PALSY GUIDANCE
www.cerebralpalsyguidance.comCerebralPalsyGuidance.com is a comprehensive informational website on cerebral palsy. From information on cerebral palsy symptoms to financial assistance to daily living articles CerebralPalsyGuidance.com covers all aspects of cerebral palsy. All information is thoroughly researched and cited.
CEREBRAL PALSY GUIDE
844-891-1117
www.cerebralpalsyguide.comCerebral Palsy Guide is an organization dedicated to the wellbeing and education of individuals with cerebral palsy. This organization aims to focus on the families children and caregivers who cope with a CP diagnosis on a daily basis.
EASTER SEALS DISABILITY SERVICES
800-221-6827
www.easterseals.comEaster Seals is one of the oldest organizations help disabled persons and persons with special needs. They provide education advocacy outreach and exceptional services to the disabled community.
EXCEPTIONAL PARENT MAGAZINE
800-247-8080
www.eparent.comExceptional Parent is a monthly magazine for parents and professional caretakers of people with special needs. The national website includes resources for parent to parent programs information and referral centers a disability library services products and much more.
MUMS (MOTHERS UNITED FOR MORAL SUPPORT)
909-336-5333
www.netnet.net/mums/Once a national parent-to-parent network MUMS now provides information and emotional support to parents whose child has a rare (or not so rare) disorder.
NAMI (NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR MENTAL ILLNESS)
800-950-6264
www.nami.orgNAMI provides information and training programs for caregivers of individuals with mental health issues or brain disorders as well as the opportunity to connect with others.
NATIONAL CENTER FOR LEARNING DISABILITIES
212-545-7510
www.ncld.orgNCLD enables young adults empowers parents and advocates for policy creation in an attempt to improve the lives of disabled people. They have great resources for parents adults with disabilities and educators.
NICHY (NATIONAL INFORMATION CENTER FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH W/ DISABILITIES)
800-695-0285
www.nichy.orgNICHY is a list of various resources for people with disabilities and their families. The site provides links to various education learning disability and mental disorder resources.
NICHCY (NATIONAL DISSEMINATION CENTER FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES)
nichcy.org/NICHCY encourages families to learn everything they can about learning disabilities education and legislation and they provide comprehensive resources for this purpose. While funding for the NICHCY has ended the website and its resources will be available until September 30 2014.
NIH (NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF HEALTH)
301-402-4336www.nih.govNIH is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and shares information on new developments and studies regarding mental and physical health. Stephen Groft at the office of rare diseases provides information on which hospitals and physicians are doing research or clinical trials on any disease.
NORD (NATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR RARE DISORDERS)
800-999-6673www.rarediseases.orgNORD provides information and resources for patients families other organizations and medical professionals regarding rare disorders. They also advocate for consistent and fair government policies and support innovative research.
SOCIAL SECURITY SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME
800-772-1213
www.ssa.gov/pgm/ssi.htmThe Social Security Administration provides certain benefits to disabled adults and children who have limited income sources. Give them a call or check out their website to find out how you can get these benefits.
Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS)
Social Security Administration
Department of Assistive and Rehabilitation Services
Richland College TRiO Services
Community for Permanent Supported Housing
Plano Parks and Recreation/Therapeutic Recreation
Richardson Parks and Recreation
Private Providers Association of Texas
Jewish Federation of Greater Dallas
Aaron Family Jewish Community Center
Dallas Jewish Community Foundation
FODAC Music Fest – September 23, 2023
ROCK “N” Roll and Make a Difference! The Friends of Disabled Adults and Children Savannah Music supported by Alzheimer’s Music Fest will feature 90’s Iconic Band, CRACKER!
FODAC is a 501(c)3 nonprofit established in 1986 dedicated to supporting families and individuals facing the many different diagnoses of adults and children living with disabilities, injuries, and illnesses. FODAC has been serving the Savannah and coastal areas with deliveries of medical equipment for more than 5 years and is now starting an operation in Savannah that will help the area with real time access to the equipment and services we provide.
Home Medical Equipment Drives in 2023
FODAC is a non-profit dedicated to recycling lightly used Home Medical Equipment (HME) and we rely on donations from the local communities. Help someone in your community today by recycling and donating your gently used equipment.
FODAC is partnering with cities and local civic groups to collect HME, with multiple events throughout the year!
If your community is not organizing an event, you can contact FODAC to schedule one near you.
"Invisible” Disabilities and the ADA
When someone has a non-apparent disability, such as diabetes, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, asthma, mental illness or HIV/AIDS, it frequently can raise unique issues for both the employer and the employee. This session will review the legal issues, EEOC guidance and court decisions when "invisible" disabilities are at issue, including pre-employment inquiries and medical examinations, workplace disclosure, reasonable accommodations and confidentiality.
Jobs
Jobs for People with Disabilities | Source America
U.S. Intelligence Community careers - Diversity and Inclusion (intelligencecareers.gov)
Jobs For People With Disabilities | Apply Here! (mydisabilityjobs.com)
Sports
Disabled Competitive Team Sports | Paralympic Team USA | DASA (dasasports.org)
The Adaptive Sports Connection
VA National Veterans Sports Programs & Special Events Office
Challenged Athletes Foundation – Changing lives through sports
American Collegiate Society for Adapted Athletics
Military Adaptive Sports Program (MASP)
Adaptive Sports and Fitness Program - MedStar NRH
The American Wheelchair Bowling Association
BlazeSports America – Changing the lives of children and veterans with physical disabilities through adaptive sports.
Sports and Recreation Physical Therapy | Shepherd Center
National Ability Center: Adaptive sport, recreation & adventures in Utah
NSCD: Recreation & competitive programs for people with disabilities.
Adaptive Sports Foundation: Empowering Lives Through Adaptive Sports
Higher Ground – Achieving New Heights Through Adaptive Sports
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