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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 testimonialSafeway testimonialSouth Columbia Chamber of Commerce testimonialSt Anthony's Hospital testimonialWaterford 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