Advance

FALL 2013

Advance, Cornell ILR School's publication for alumni and friends.

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Associate Director of Training and Development, Employment and Disability Institute What led you to enter the disability field? My career in the field of disability began when I took a position as a technical writer and editor at a nonprofit vocational rehabilitation center. It was shortly after receiving my master's degree in English literature. I was also teaching at Adelphi University, but my interest in employment and disability was piqued and I decided to pursue it on a full-time basis. I can truly say that my education in the field of disability was acquired on the job, thanks to many passionate and dedicated professionals I had the opportunity to learn from. If you could provide three tips for employers on building workplaces inclusive of people with disabilities, what would they be? • Always focus on the person and not the disability. • The disability community is just as diverse as any other — do not stereotype. • Do not make assumptions about abilities and interests; include employees with disabilities in all worksite and off-site programs and events. Can you describe "EARN," the project you lead for the Employment and Disability Institute? The Employee Assistance and Resource Network, known as "EARN," is a perfect fit for both the institute's mission and the ILR School's mission. EARN is designed to advance the world of work, with a special focus on people with disabilities. Funded by the U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Disability and Employment Policy, EARN is a great resource for employers looking to diversify their workforces. What are EARN's biggest challenges? The biggest challenge for EARN is to reach small- to mid-size businesses where much of the hiring occurs, but where awareness is often lacking about the benefits of hiring candidates with disabilities. There are still many misconceptions about the skills and talents of individuals with disabilities. Those misconceptions contribute to employment challenges. Among Americans ages 21 to 64, only 33 percent of people with disabilities are employed versus 76 percent of people without disabilities. How does Employment and Disability Institute expertise support the project? Lack of awareness and the extensive nature of disabilities, including many that are not visible, often present challenges for HR practitioners and managers. Our staff has years of diverse experience working with both the business community and job seekers with disabilities. We provide practical advice and tested strategies for creating inclusive work environments that facilitate legal compliance, while contributing to employee engagement and productivity. How can EARN be contacted? Employers can call 855-ASK-EARN, email earn@askEARN.org or visit www.askEARN.org. Our support also includes individualized consultations and customized online or in-person on-site training. 10

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