Benefits of Employment

We work to get the money we need to do important things like pay bills, buy food, and have fun with family and friends, but there are many other benefits to being employed. Here are a few of the benefits individuals with disabilities can experience by working:

• Independence

  Having a job can provide financial independence, allowing people to pursue interests and activities they enjoy, and might otherwise not be able to afford. Working also helps by contributing to our identities, building confidence, and empowering us to have more control over our lives.

• Community connection

  The very act of working at a job creates opportunities for socialization. Meeting new people, finding new friendships, and increased activity in the community improves social interaction and communication skills. Work is often a great motivator in helping us increase our engagement in the community, and inspires us to explore activities, groups, and events.

• Health benefits

  Working at a job can often have the surprising benefit of improving mental and physical health. Meaningful work can help us develop self-worth and a sense of purpose. Work has been known to be a great stress reducer for life’s issues, as well as being beneficial to sleep patterns and healthy eating.

• Learn new skills

  Jobs can open up new skills and interests while sharpening the skills we already have.

• Sense of accomplishment

  Working hard and being productive raises self-esteem, feelings of responsibility and acceptance, and brings a sense of accomplishment through completing work tasks and goals.

• Increases self-awareness and understanding of the world around us

  As we work, we become exposed to a multitude of situations, people, news, thinking styles, attitudes, beliefs, interests, and values. This exposure not only helps us in our own self-exploration but helps us to understand the world around us.

• Contribute to society

  Every job is important, and every job in one way or another helps improve the life of someone else. Having a job means you are a part of the economy and are contributing to society as a whole.

• Pride

  Workers often feel great satisfaction when a job gives them the opportunity to be productive. The pride they feel when acknowledged for a job well done, or when their effort is appreciated, can give meaning to the work.

Workers with disabilities are good for business

When a company hires a worker with a disability, they are selecting an individual who is motivated, reliable, and productive, as well as creating a work culture that promotes and demonstrates an inclusive environment.

Compared to non-disabled employees, those hired with a disability are known to exhibit:

• Equal or better job performance
• Lower absenteeism rates
• Higher retention rates
• Better on-the-job safety records

Benefits to employers who hire people with disabilities:

• Incentives and tax credits
• Increased morale of other employees
• Lower staff turnover
• Better company culture due to diversifying the workforce