How Hiring People with Disabilities Helps Address Worker Shortages

An urgent labor shortage is impacting American businesses across nearly every industry, from restaurants and retail to health services and hospitality. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce recently reported that there were a record 8.1 million job openings in the United States in March 2021, and about half as many available workers for every open job across the country as there have been on average over the past 20 years.

The national labor shortage is a critical and complex problem without a simple solution. However, many companies are overlooking a large pool of talent that could help ease their labor shortages: Individuals with disabilities who desire to work!

We Put People to Work!

The Benefits of Hiring Individuals with Disabilities

Historically, individuals with disabilities have experienced a much higher unemployment rate compared to the general population. While some employers have realized the value employees with disabilities can bring to the workforce, a large employment gap still exists.

Numerous studies have shown that hiring individuals with disabilities offers significant benefits to employers. Many employers have reported increased productivity, improved employee recruitment and retention, and ultimately cost savings due to reduced turnover. Creating a more diverse and inclusive work environment by hiring individuals with disabilities also lifts a brand’s image and helps to enhance employee morale within the entire organization.

Breaking Down Barriers to Employment

While many individuals with disabilities are fully capable of working and eager to be employed, there are still significant barriers they may face in the workforce, including physical barriers, discrimination and stereotyping, and lack of workplace supports and accommodations. At Ohio Valley Goodwill, we’re on a mission to break down these barriers and help individuals with disabilities achieve employment success!

In collaboration with local partner agencies, Ohio Valley Goodwill serves hundreds of individuals with disabilities by providing job skills training, career coaching, job placement, and other essential employment services. We believe it’s our social responsibility to educate employers about the benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities and advocate for job seekers in their journey to finding and obtaining meaningful employment.

Now, at a point when employers are struggling to fill open job positions, it’s time to expand the workforce and consider opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Not only will widening the talent pool help ease the labor shortage, but it creates better, more inclusive communities.

Your Support Makes All the Difference

Goodwill’s Cycle of Success

You can help create employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities in your community by supporting Ohio Valley Goodwill! Every time you donate your gently-used belongings or shop at a Goodwill retail store, you help us continue to provide programs and services that promote independence, dignity, and true community inclusion. It’s all a part of our cycle of success to change lives through the power of work!

Ready to find out more about the impact of Ohio Valley Goodwill’s mission, programs, and services? Learn more here and read the inspirational Success Stories of the individuals we’re proud to serve and support.