Recruiting People with Disabilities

Susan Finisdore, Access AmeriCorps Project
United Cerebral Palsy Associations

SEPTEMBER 1996 - (archived information - please note the date of publication)

As members of the National Service field, we strive for an AmeriCorps that "looks like America" and reflects the range of diversity that we find in our communities. That diversity includes people with disabilities.

As AmeriCorps programs begin the 1996-97 service year, efforts should be made to include people with disabilities and to ensure that they have access to the recruitment process. There are three broad areas of consideration:

  1. Outreach activities should be accessible and inclusive.
  2. Specific accommodations should be made for individuals who may require them.
  3. All outreach and recruitment material should depict people with disabilities and should include nondiscrimination statements.

Easily said! Now, what specific activities can programs undertake to ensure that these areas are addressed?

Accessible and Inclusive Outreach Activities

  • Ensure that meeting and functions are held in accessible locations (use the Access AmeriCorps Checklist).
  • Ensure that written material can be provided in alternative formats on request (e.g. Braille, large print, diskette).
  • When advertising, let the public know that you will provide accommodations on request.

Accommodations on Request

  • Be aware that some people with disabilities may require accommodations for interviews or meetings.
  • Know agencies and organizations in your communities that can provide accommodations.
  • Be aware of what you can and cannot ask in recruitment interviews (check out the Access AmeriCorps teleconference materials).

Welcoming Recruitment Materials

  • Include pictures of people with disabilities performing service activities.
  • Include disability in non-discrimination statements (e.g. "AmeriCorps the Beautiful does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, national origin, disability").
  • Let the public know that you are willing and able to provide accommodation when needed. (e.g. "AmeriCorps the Beautiful strives to include people with disabilities. Please let John Doe know if there are accommodations we can provide in accordance with the ADA and Section 504").

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