by Erin Steeley

Created on: June 22, 2010   Last Updated: June 24, 2010

People with disabilities face varying challenges when trying to enter the work field. One section of this population that can find it very challenging are those who are struck suddenly with a disability who previously did not have one. An accident or illness that leaves a person with a physical or mental disability have to look at the world in a whole different way. Many doors that were open start to close quickly due to inability to fill job expectations, do certain kinds of work or commute regularly. The help they need in this case can be very effective if it involves job training and transitioning into a new life.

There are already excellent programs in place that can help with this, such as vocational rehabilitation, that help people through this process. Keeping these programs funded, filled with well trained staff, and equipped with the necessary resources can help us to save money in the long run. Other programs, such as Medicaid and welfare, are wonderful, temporary support to help people get by as they get through school or training and out into the work world. With the availability of work from home jobs on the Internet, there are also more opportunities to help those with disabilities lead a meaningful existence. This gives society a solid, contributing citizen.

By giving them job training and assistance in securing a good job, we cut down on the expense of having to support someone to a great extent through disability and welfare. There are so many talented people that if they had the chance and help to see how to adapt to the new changes in their life would make a difference in society. I personally was diagnosed with narcolepsy in my thirties, and after being employed full time, bilingual and experienced in education found myself out of all almost every kind of job I was trained for. I am not a disabled individual, but until my medication was stabilized and we discovered the treatment necessary to get my body back on track, I had a hard time finding a job for almost a year. I am grateful for the help in adapting, as it was a shock to see all my opportunities slide down the drain.

Assisting those with disabilities pays dividends back to society on so many fronts, especially if we focus on helping them to find meaningful and engaging employment.

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