Employee Assistance and Human Resource Collaboration for Improving Employment and Disabilities Status

Abstract

This article discusses societal and employer misconceptions that are limiting individuals with disabilities from entering the workforce as envisioned by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Diversity issues in the 21st century workplace are of increasing concern to corporate America and organized labor. During the decade of the ADA existence, there is evidence that it has not moved fast enough in providing employment opportunities for many with disabilities. This article discusses disability, societal attitudes and biases, the ADA, and disability misconceptions and employment barriers. It discusses the need for collaborative efforts of employers' human resource department and employee assistance professionals to address disability and employment needs.

Key Words:

• Disabilities accommodation
• employment barriers for the disabled
• human resource management