Almost 18 percent of Americans with a disability were employed last year, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Still, the unemployment rate for people with a disability is twice as high – at 10.5 percent – than those without a disability (4.6 percent).
In Bexar County, where almost 160,000 individuals live with a disability, only 66,000 were part of the workforce in 2014.
Job opportunities for people with disabilities can be limited, with low pay or part-time hours. These circumstances often undermine an individual's ability to contribute to the community or be self-sufficient.
What opportunities exist locally and how can employers be encouraged to consider more accessible or inclusive hiring practices?
Guests:
- Kevin Bergner, CEO of Goodwill San Antonio
- Christy Anderson, Goodwill employee living with cerebral palsy
- Melanie Cawthon, executive director of disABILITYsa
- Lia S. Davis, attorney for Disability Rights Texas
For more information on resources in San Antonio, visit goodwillsa.org or call (210) 924-8581.
This is a community conversation and we want to hear from you. Leave a voicemail with your questions and comments in advance by calling 210-615-8982. During the live show (12 - 1 p.m.), call 210-614-8980, email thesource@tpr.org or tweet at @TPRSource.
