Finding a Job When You Have a Disability
Having an impairment or disability shouldn’t prohibit you from finding a job you enjoy. In fact, you can search for positions on MiTalent.org that employers posted specifically for the disabled community. Here are some suggestions and tools for you as you begin your career search.
- Know your rights:
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines an individual with a disability as a person who: (1) has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity, (2) has a record or history of a substantially limiting impairment, or (3) is regarded or perceived by an employer as having a substantially limiting impairment. It’s recommended that a job seeker with a disability familiarize themselves with their rights and with the course of action to take if you feel your rights have been infringed on during the job search and application process. - Focus on your abilities:
Job seekers with disabilities or impairments still bring a wealth of skills to the table. Focus your cover letter, resume and interview around what value you can provide to an employer. - Leverage existing programs and services:
Below are a few agencies that exist specifically to assist persons with disabilities. Explore how they may be helpful to you on your job search. Some may even have access to funds to help employers make reasonable accommodations after an offer has been extended. - Leverage existing programs and services:
Below are a few agencies that exist specifically to assist persons with disabilities. Explore how they may be helpful to you on your job search. Some may even have access to funds to help employers make reasonable accommodations after an offer has been extended. - Bureau of Services of Blind Persons
- Michigan Rehabilitation Services
- Detroit Community Health Connection
- Disability Network Southwest Michigan (covers 8 counties)
- Focus: HOPE
- Goodwill Industries
- Jewish Vocational Service (JVS)
- Job Accommodation Network
- Mariners Inn
- Michigan Paralyzed Veterans of America
- National Collaborative on Workforce and Disability
- Salvation Army
- Southeast Michigan Community Alliance (SEMCA) Michigan Works!
- Southwest Solutions
- United Cerebral Palsy
Get more with Michigan Works!
Get connected to more resources through your local Michigan Works! Service Center, a proud partner of the American Job Center network.