What to Expect

Hiring a person with a disability may be easier than you think. Many individuals with disabilities have a college education, long work histories, and a variety of marketable skills. In addition, often individuals with disabilities looking for employment have a variety of support available to them. Find out more below. 

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Specialized Support

Colleges and universities often have specialized supports available to individuals with disabilities. As a result, many qualified candidates may be accessible through college placement or Work One offices. In addition, other external resources like the State Vocational Rehabilitation office may have already helped the person purchase equipment and other services that will help them meet the expectation of the job. The need for additional accommodation may not be great. 

Qualified Workers

Some individuals with disabilities already have a long work history and good work skills. A person may have been injured in some type of accident that has required them to seek alternatives to their previous type of work. A person suffering from a back injury may have had the opportunity to be retrained for work that does not require lifting. Again, resources like the State Vocational Rehabilitation office, workman's compensation or insurance settlements from accidents may have supplied the person with the retraining and services needed to return to work in an alternative setting.

Placement Agencies

Individuals with developmental disabilities or mental health concerns are often working with a specialized placement agency. The placement agency works with the employer to find appropriate candidates to fill the job, to restructure jobs if needed, help determine any accommodations that may be needed, assist with training the individual and assist with training the other employees about the disability if needed. Most of the time the placement agency will work with the employer to provide support beyond the employer's normal training period. 

Most communities, including Bloomington, have many organizations assisting employers and potential employees with disabilities to make the connection and develop win-win outcomes for both parties.