 |  | You’re Hired! Focusing on Peoples Abilities Rather Than Disabilities. One of The Arc of Florida’s goals is to elevate the potential of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) by acknowledging and highlighting their strengths and abilities. Everyone desires and looks forward to experiencing the feeling of being useful and purposeful in their lives. When businesses hire employees from varying backgrounds, everyone benefits. Employers who expand their hiring practices to those with I/DD will discover access to a mass talent pool in Florida with a range of strengths, leadership styles, and creative ways of thinking. Evidence from the U.S. Department of Labor found that employers who hired people with I/DD saw a 90% increase in employee retention. Studies show that these employees have a strong sense of loyalty to their workplace, are reliable, and punctual with fewer days of absenteeism. Employees with disabilities possess skills, attributes, and experiences that allow them to solve problems differently with unique perspectives. Research shows that many adults with autism possess higher-than-average abilities in pattern recognition, memory and mathematics – highly sought-after skills in many sectors of the economy. Inclusive hiring practices communicate social acceptance of people with I/DD. It shows self-advocates, as well as their families and friends, that they are valued, which may have a positive effect on them thinking more favorably of the company and may also encourage them to become or remain loyal customers.
Florida is an “Employment First” state which means that the state prioritizes employment as the first and preferred option for individuals with (I/DD) who are of working age. This initiative is designed to ensure this population has the opportunity to work in competitive, integrated employment settings. However, these same individuals need supports so they can be employed. The agency that provides this support is Florida’s Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program. The VR Program has stated that $1 invested in Vocational Rehabilitation contributes $10 to the economy. There is a federal match that each state may earn which is about 4x the investment up to the state’s allotment. The state paid-for-report with the Public Consulting Group (PCG) looks at how the program can be improved. The Arc of Florida supports the implementation of this rate study to increase the supports need to have individuals with I/DD employed. This includes such services as “on-the-job training,” job coaching, pre-placement training, youth peer mentoring, work-based learning experiences, and other supports needed so people with disabilities can contribute to the economy while having the dignity of work. The implementation of the Public Consulting Group (PCG) rate study recommendations will make a big impact in employment of those with disabilities. The study recommends an average 52% increase ($28.6 million) for services to those with I/DD. This will be a wise investment as well as good public policy. Employing more individuals with I/DD will help economies grow as these individuals will also pay taxes and spend more money in the community.
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