Words matter, and their impacts can be empowering or disempowering. People First Language helps ensure our words empower by putting the person, not his or his disability, first. In its simplest form, it means saying “a person with Down syndrome” instead of “a Down syndrome person.” It also means never using the r-word and other terms that hurt whether directed at someone with a disability or not. Learn more facts about Down syndrome. .
Words matter, and their impacts can be empowering or disempowering. People First Language helps ensure our words empower by putting the person, not his or his disability, first. In its simplest form, it means saying “a person with Down syndrome” instead of “a Down syndrome person.” It also means never using the r-word and other terms that hurt whether directed at someone with a disability or not. More on People First Language.
We invite job seekers with varied levels of experience to apply for our Your Next Star Academies. Whether you are at the beginning of your employment journey, considering a career shift, or simply looking to sharpen your employment skills, consider applying for one of our Academy offerings.
The Employment Academy is for trainees ages 18+, while the Career Exploration Academy targets students ages 17-21. The latter is designed to complement transition programs prior to graduation. Both Academies seek to sharpen employment skills, boost confidence, and strengthen interpersonal and “people” skills to enable job seekers to interact effectively and professionally with supervisors, co-workers, and clients.
When a qualified employer contacts the MDSC about a job opportunity, you will then be notified about the job posting to then decide if you would like to apply for the position. Sign up for job alerts here.
A resume is a great way to share more about yourself with an employer, including your work and volunteer experience and goals for future employment! Click here for a comprehensive overview outlining important information to include on a resume.
As a person with a disability, you may qualify for some tax deductions, income exclusions, and credits. Visit the “Impact on Benefits” section of our Resources for Job Seekers.
Click here to view our full database of resources for job seekers.
People with disabilities have historically faced enormous hurdles to getting a job. But the facts show that businesses can actually boost their competitive edge by making people with disabilities an integral part of their workforce and their customer base. Click here to read more.
Each person with Down syndrome is unique and has his or her own personality, skills, physical strength and ability to stay on task. An employee with Down syndrome may need a part-time schedule or they may be able to work full time.
Most workers with disabilities do not need any special equipment or accommodations. Of those who do, nearly half of accommodations cost nothing. 45% of accommodations have a one-time cost, typically around $500, but accessibility costs for workers with disabilities are almost always covered by federal tax incentives. Click here to learn more about making accommodations in the workplace.
You will be asked to be open-minded, humane, and even think outside the box. But nobody will ask you to hire someone who can’t do the job. Whoever you hire must be able to satisfy your job requirements and perform the essential functions of the position, with or without accommodations.
Your commitment to inclusive hiring is the most important element for success. On your way to finding Your Next Star, there may be challenges and setbacks, but your dedication and a willingness to reach out for help will carry the day.
A range of tax incentives are available to help employers cover the cost of accommodations for employees with disabilities and to make their places of business accessible for employees and/or customers with disabilities. Read more here.
There’s a wide range of practices, policies, programs and outreach that will help employees with disabilities feel more welcomed and allow them to succeed at your company. These steps will send a message to prospective employees and the general public alike that you’re an employer who truly values inclusion. Implement these as you’re able. Click here to read more.
Click here to view our full database or resources for employers.
