If you are a person living with SCI/D who would like to return to work, we can help you! After SCI/D there is so much to think about. Everyone wants to participate in their lives as much as they can and regain their independence. But some of the challenges of living with SCI/D can seem insurmountable. This includes returning to work.

The Pathways to Employment program will give you the opportunity to:

• Interact with someone who has successfully adjusted to working with a disability
• Gain practical information on resources, benefits, and work incentive programs
• Develop an employment plan
• Prepare for job interviews
• Learn self-advocacy skills
• Acquire reasonable accommodations

Many companies are realizing that while hiring people with disabilities is a socially responsible policy it makes great business sense as well. While every individual is unique, many people with disabilities have developed skills and characteristics that are extremely valuable to employers. Having the tenacity to endure a completely life changing condition, acclimate to a new way of operating in the world, the persistence to overcome obstacles, the ingenuity and troubleshooting skills to navigate challenges are a few of the qualities that people with disabilities can bring to a workplace. In addition, many individuals with spinal cord injury/disease have successfully learned to handle complex insurance, medical or other benefit systems adhering to detailed reporting requirements and policies. Those who need personal care attendants to assist with activities of daily life essentially demonstrate the skills necessary to run a small business – hiring, personnel management, delegation, task management, and conflict resolution.

United Spinal’s Pathways to Employment program is here to help with training, resources and connections to qualified individuals ready to work.

Training
The Pathways to Employment program offers a training presentation and curriculum designed for hiring managers, recruiters, human resources and executive leadership that provides guidance and resources related to the recruitment and onboarding processes to ensure staff is aware of legal considerations, helpful information on interacting with people with disabilities, tips for successful interviews and accommodation request assistance.

In-person or virtual trainings available.

Session time is 2 hours. Additional elements can be added to expand curriculum if your company is looking for a more intense, interactive session.

Expected Outcomes

• Identify potential barriers in current recruitment and onboarding processes
• Describe practical elements of successful interviews with people with disabilities
• Discuss approaches to accommodation requests

Interview Tips for Employers

If you are an employer interested in learning about training opportunities, please contact:

Matt Castelluccio
mcastelluccio@unitedspinal.org