Training approaches and the provision of employment services for persons and youth with disabilities

The employment of people with disabilities (PWD) in the competitive labour force in Canada and throughout the world is characterized by lower participation. Although the explanations offered for these lower levels of participation are multi-faceted, in general, the social and economic structures of society itself can limit the inclusion of PWD in activities of everyday life, including employment. Recognizing that exclusion - whatever its cause - is a problem, people with disabilities, service providers and employers are joining together to address the unemployment of people with disabilities, and raising awareness of the positive contributions that PWD can make as workers, not only to their employers, but also to the economy as a whole. The Employment Accessibility Resource Network (EARN) in Ottawa is one such collaborative community initiative coordinated by the United Way Ottawa and developed for the purpose of improving knowledge and employment opportunities and outcomes for PWD. EARN's members represent the public and private sectors, and include employers, employment and rehabilitation service providers and diversity officers.