ROC

At least once a month an employer tells me they can't hire someone with a disability. Actually, they're more likely to say they can't hire a blind person to run a machine or a paraplegic to drive a bus, choosing one disability to represent all. Unfortunately, it's common for people who make hiring decisions to assume they can't employ people with disabilities.

Our government has fought this perception, creating several laws and agencies to protect and enhance employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Since 1988, October has been designated National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Despite these efforts, the results remain disheartening: As of September 2014, the unemployment rate for people with disabilities was 12.3 percent, more than double the rate of 5.5 percent for people without disabilities.

One barrier to employment is the perception that disabilities are very limiting. The disabilities often mentioned are "blind," "deaf," or "paraplegic." Many disabilities are more subtle and have less impact on the workplace. Diabetes and cancer are prevalent in our workforce and may only limit an employee's schedule due to medical appointments. Others, like PTSD or bipolar disorder, are sporadic and allow the employee to function just like any employee without a disability the majority of the time.

Another barrier is the assumption that accommodations are expensive.

The Job Accommodation Network, however, has found that two-thirds of accommodations cost less than $500 and nearly a quarter cost nothing at all. Making an accommodation can be as simple as allowing time off for appointments, extra time for training, or adjusting break periods. Often the employee with the disability can suggest a simple and inexpensive accommodation to meet their needs.

For more complex disabilities, programs are in place to help both the employer and employee. The Job Accommodation Network offers online resources for employers faced with accommodating a disability. In Rochester, organizations such as ACCES-VR and the Hickok Center for Brain Injury offer job training, placement, and coaching services.

For employers, great talent is difficult to find. Removing barriers to employing people with disabilities now could someday impact job prospects for your neighbor, your child, or even you.

Craig is VP of compliance services, HR Works Inc.