What Employers Need to Know about People with Different Abilities

A child growing up with a disability is entitled to services that support their ability to succeed in both social and educational environments throughout their childhood. The ultimate goal behind these services is that the supports and education are the foundation of a child’s transition into independent living. The services and support provided during their school-age years are intended to assist in improving their quality of life. There is a roadblock for those with disabilities, which is the rocky transition from high school to post-educational life. This transition is essential for the success of the child’s long-term employment and independence. This paper will review research focusing primarily on those with intellectual disabilities. Intellectual disabilities are defined as a person(s) who is found to have limited cognitive functioning such as communication, taking care of oneself, and social skills (National Down Syndrome Society, 2020). Common diagnoses associated with intellectual disabilities are Down Syndrome, Autism, William’s Syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, as well as countless others. The primary goals of this paper are to demonstrate the importance of successful transitioning, describe the lack of support for those with different abilities, and identify the need for a more inclusive environment for those with different abilities within the workplace. The hope and call to action is for employers to realize that when a person is employed, they are not only contributing to society, but they are enhancing the quality of life for all stakeholders involved