What that means is the student's team is doing its best to set the student up for success in life beyond high school, and the student gets to be a key decision maker in this plan.
But what companies hire individuals with disabilities? Where can your not-yet-graduated, or recently graduated child, work to earn money and live an independent life?
It's important to note that the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects people with disabilities from discrimination. Signed by Congress in 1990, it is a law that protects the civil rights of people with disabilities in public life. To read more or get additional assistance, please visit ada.gov.
Here is a list of 15 organizations or companies that hire people with special needs:
- Kroger
- Publix
- H-E-B
- Meijer
- Chick-fil-A
- Panera Bread
- CiCi's Pizza
- Walmart
- Target
- Walgreens
- IKEA
- Goodwill
- Proctor & Gamble
- John's Crazy Socks
- Bitty & Beau's Coffee
But this list is only a beginning, and while it is very encouraging for the future of individuals with disabilities, the U.S. Department of Labor reports that only 32%, or one-third, of working-age people with disabilities were employed on average in the 2010-12 period, compared to over 72%, or over two-thirds, of people without disabilities. That's why I would like to further encourage families with special needs to think outside of the box. For example, think about your child becoming an entrepreneur and starting a business doing something he or she loves!
The following is a list of companies and organizations that are disability-owned and/ or run and employ others with disabilities:
- John's Crazy Socks
- Bitty & Beau's Coffee
- Jigsaw Grant
- Jordyn's Summer Shirt Project
- Violets are Kinda Purple
- The Spotlight Project
- Shelby's Bridge
- Trista's Sunshine Company
When we support small businesses and employ those with disabilities, like all companies and businesses showcased above, we not only help amplify disabled voices, but we help spread awareness, acceptance, and inclusion of individuals with disabilities.
Disability is diversity. As parents and as educational professionals, we have the opportunity to help provide individuals with meaningful employment opportunities and a plan to get there.•
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Stephanie is a dual-certified special education teacher, Master IEP Coach®, children's book author, and teacher mentor. She has a passion for creating engaging, adapted resources for teachers and students with disabilities, and is self-proclaimed #datanerd. She understands that not everyone will love IEPs as much as she does, but it is her hope that with the appropriate training and resources, teachers will not only advocate harder for student services and supports, but also bridge the gap between teachers and families to foster a true IEP Team. She also provides professional development for teachers. You can connect with her at www.mrsdscorner.com and www.theintentionaliep.com. Stephanie is also a huge mental health advocate, sharing her experiences and struggles to let others know that you can survive the dark seasons and thrive in life and teaching with a mental illness.
