Transition to Employment

Today, another 10,000 people were laid off at General Motors (GM). Our economy has without a doubt gotten the best of us making employment a hard task to get and keep for many individuals with and without disabilities. But it will not go without being said that this transition to employment is one of the hardest to overcome for individuals with disabilities, and once grasped can easily be taken away. Regardless of the difficulty, reaching employment can be one of the most beneficial and rewarding contributors in these individuals lives. It brings about independence, and over time an increase in their self-confidence. However, this process is very long and requires patients from all that participate in the preparation and actual transition. I think the hardest role is to be parent during this time, unlike the professionals they have received no training and know little of what to expect. Of all people they are the most invested, and want to see their child excel but also want to protect. That is why this blog is devoted to getting them resources, and help to begin the long journey of understanding their child's needs and what role they can take to help.

Agency/Web resources:

http://www.enableamerica.org

- Enable America’s objective is to increase employment among people with disabilities in the United States. They are committed to raising awareness of employment-related disability issues on a local and national level.

.http://www.jobaccess.org

- Offers current employment articles, job searching, and information on ADA (American Disability Act). The website is for you to post resumes, and also employers to post positions and seek qualified candidates.

http://www.nish.org

- Devoted to creating employment opportunities to people with severe disabilities by securing federal contracts through the AbilityOne Program for its network of community-based, nonprofit agencies.

Book resources:

Making Self Employment Work for People with Disabilities

By: Cary Griffin & David Hammis

- Provides guidance on helping individuals start their own businesses and become their own boss!

Real Work for Real Pay

Edited By: Paul Wehman, Ph. D., Katherine J. Inge, Ph. D., W. Grant Revell, Jr., & Valerie A. Brooke

- Offers up-to-date information on inclusion into the work force.

The Way to Work

By: Richard G. Luecking, Ed. D.

- Guidance to empower your children to excel in finding and excelling in their job.