Employers

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Employing Individuals with Down Syndrome

Since the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) became law in 1990, employing people with Down syndrome and other disabilities has been a realistic goal for many types of employers – corporations, local businesses large & small, and government agencies. However, many barriers to employment for individuals with Down syndrome still exist. According to the Arc, the majority of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities are either unemployed or underemployed, despite their ability, desire and willingness to work in the community.

The Down Syndrome Association of Northeast Ohio (formerly the Up Side of Downs) is a member of the Employment Collaborative of Cuyahoga County, a network of nonprofit, social service and government agencies dedicated to meeting the hiring needs of local businesses. The Employment Collaborative can advertise your job openings to a large group of potential employees and conducts hiring events for local employers throughout the year. To learn more, contact EmploymentCollaborative@CuyahogaBDD.org.

To learn more about the benefits of hiring individuals with Down syndrome, get tips for success and additional resources, read the NDSS Valued-Able-and-Ready-to-Work-3-9-16