Employment First: Benefits of Inclusive Hiring

Building strong partnerships with the local business community expands the availability of community-based jobs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Benefits to employers

Historically, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) have experienced much higher rates of unemployment than the general population. While this is still the case generally, employers are starting to see that individuals who experience an I/DD can be dedicated and hard-working employees who also contribute greatly to the productivity, culture and diversity of the workplace. Communities embrace people who contribute, and employment of individuals with I/DD is a win/win for everybody.

Employer testimonials (videos)

Oregon employers are increasingly aware of the positive contribution people with intellectual and developmental disabilities can make to their businesses, and to their bottom line. Here are testimonials from Oregon employers and business owners discussing their experience employing a person with a disability.

Comfort Suites testimonial Safeway testimonial South Columbia Chamber of Commerce testimonial St Anthony's Hospital testimonial Waterford Grand testimonial

Success stories

Read employee success stories from individuals with I/DD working in the community.

Do you have a story about how hiring an individual with I/DD has made your business more successful? Please let us know! Email your story to employment.first@odhsoha.oregon.gov.

Resources for building an inclusive workforce

U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration has a variety of resources and information available to employers on Hiring People with Disabilities.
Five Myths and the Real Facts for Employers
Myths surrounding hiring people with disabilities, and facts around these issues.
The Business Case
Hiring a qualified person with a disability brings greater benefits beyond just filling an open job. There's a solid business case, too.
Best Practices for Finding Qualified Workers
How can you get started hiring employees with disabilities? Here are some ideas.
The Job Accommodation Network
The Job Accommodation Network (JAN) is the leading source of free, expert, and confidential guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues.
Office of Disability Employment Policy
ODEP's mission is to develop and influence policies and practices that increase the number and quality of employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
Tax Incentives for Employers
There are some great tax incentives available for employers who hire a person with a disability, or just want to make their business more accessible to customers.
Employer Assistance and Resource Network (EARN)
Resources to help employers recruit, hire, retain and advance individuals with disabilities