Over time, the world has become more and more inclusive. Still, navigating employment for adults with intellectual disabilities is an undeniable challenge. If you’ve been feeling frustrated with your job search or want to give yourself a leg up when it’s time to find a job, you’re in the right place. You’ll be glad to know that there are many resources available in your state to ease your job search struggles. In this article, we’ll share four intellectual disability employment opportunities in Louisiana.
1. Best Buddies Jobs Program
The Best Buddies Jobs Program, which operates in over 20 states (including Louisiana), connects individuals with intellectual disabilities with businesses looking to hire workers with disabilities. What sets Best Buddies apart is that they don’t just focus on jobs typically geared towards people with disabilities. They work with each jobseeker to place them in a position that fits their unique skills.
Learn more about the Best Buddies program here.
2. Ability Jobs
Ability Jobs is a dedicated job board that features opportunities specifically for veterans and jobseekers with disabilities. Jobs from companies like Amazon and Meta are referenced on the job board at the time of this writing. In addition to checking out the Ability job board, it’d be advantageous to make yourself a profile and post your resume so companies can reach out when they are interested in discussing a position with you.
Learn more about Ability Jobs here.
3. CareerCircle
CareerCircle matches workers in underserved communities (including those with intellectual disabilities) with companies looking for such talent. The job opportunities on the site are from companies of all types and sizes – CVS Health and Comcast are a couple of them. You’ll find in-person, remote, and hybrid opportunities as well.
Learn more about CareerCircle here.
4. DRLA Employment Services for People With Disabilities
Disability Rights Louisiana (DRLA) offers an employment service called “ DRLA Employment Services for People with Disabilities.” It’s only for those who meet the requirements for employment for adults with intellectual disabilities:
- You are a resident of Louisiana with a physical, mental, or intellectual disability on SSDI or SSI, OR
- You’ve been seeking, receiving, or denied Rehabilitation Act services, including Louisiana Rehabilitation Services or Supported Employment Workshops, for example.
This isn’t your typical job board. This DRLA resource provides the following services and more:
- Education/training on topics like supported employment, issues with wages or work hours, transitioning to school or work, and more.
- Jobseeker advocacy where you could receive assistive equipment or technology to help you reach your financial goals.
- Legal representation when discriminated against.
- Information and referrals to programs like Ticket to Work and specific vendors and providers.
- And more.
Learn more about DRLA Employment Services for People with Disabilities here.
So, there you have it – intellectual disability employment opportunities to help you land a first or subsequent job as a person with intellectual disabilities. We hope you found all the information you were looking for on employment for individuals with intellectual disabilities in Louisiana. And we wish you the best in your pursuit of career establishment/advancement and financial security.
