In a first-of-its-kind study unveiled to Chicago-region business leaders on January 28, 2008, a team of researchers at DePaul University discussed research results that found employees with disabilities from the healthcare, retail and hospitality sectors in the region were just as dependable and productive as employees without disabilities. In addition, researchers also discussed research results that showed accommodation costs associated with workers with disabilities were often minimal and well worth the expense.
These groundbreaking study results contradict many perceptions held by employers about employing persons with disabilities, and show that this pool of workers has much to give to employers to meet current and future workforce demands.
This study was commissioned by the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce's disabilityworks initiative, and made possible through a grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. A subsequent financial contribution was made by the Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities.
According to the Executive Summary, in the United States, one of the greatest challenges experienced by individuals with disabilities is employment. Research indicates that employer attitudes contribute to this pervasive problem. Specifically, some employers have misperceptions about the abilities of individuals with disabilities and the costs associated with the provision of accommodations. Understandably, employers are concerned with the bottom line. The purpose of the Economic Impact Study was to examine the economic costs and benefits of workers with disabilities within three sectors (healthcare, retail, and hospitality). This project included two phases of research: (1) focus groups and (2) cost-benefit surveys.
For more information and to the study, as well as the press release, under the heading "Groundbreaking study" click here
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Source: MONDAY MORNING IN WASHINGTON, DC by The Arc
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