I just recently had the honor of co-facilitating a workshop with my dear friend Anne Rader on employment and disability at the newly remodeled Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago, IL. Formerly the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, the new AbilityLab is the first-ever "translation" research hospital where clinicians and technologists work together in the same space applying research in real time. At AbilityLab, the treatment is designed around the whole patient - physically and mentally - as well as their caregivers. The new facilities are amazing and the building is absolutely beautiful!
Anne and I were so excited to speak to a class on how to navigate the job field and market one's disability as an ability in today's competitive workforce. Participants obtained experience conducting a skills inventory and how to translate the results into a winning resume, learned interview tips and strategies, obtained a working knowledge of how to market their skills and abilities to a prospective employer, and gained a better understanding of how to effectively use their disability disclosure and interview accommodations.
We were eager to begin talking to our wonderful group of attendees about disability and how to obtain entry into the workforce. We knew that if each person left with a strong belief in themselves, they could pursue their dreams! Remember: Patience, Perseverance, Presence, and Persistence and the world is your oyster!
