Employment Opportunities for Disabled to Get Boost from Village

Unemployment for the disabled in Arlington Heights runs about double compared to the general population, according to Ryan Danzinger, the chairman of the village’s commission on disabilities.

At the Arlington Economic Alliance meeting Friday, Danzinger asked for assistance in promoting awareness about employing disabled people, to ultimately improve those numbers.

A variety of steps already have been taken to get the word out.

Danzinger said the commission has reached out to disabled people who are not only unemployed, but underemployed as well to determine their needs and skills. Additional resources identified have included the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) in Arlington Heights.

“I have held presentations in front of employers, and am currently working with the Arlington Heights Chamber of Commerce as well,” Danzinger said.

Members of the alliance suggested forming partnerships with the Arlington Heights Memorial Library and neighboring Harper College.

Danzinger added that many businesses may not know there are federal tax incentives available when a business employs a disabled person. Additional financial assistance is provided to help with ‘barrier removal’ to allow the disabled person to physically be able to work in the business setting.

Danzinger requested that the alliance assist in holding a job fair for individuals with disabilities, within the next six to 18 months.

Charles Perkins, director of planning and community development for the village expressed support for the idea, and said information could also be included in the next village newsletter, which is received by Arlington Heights businesses.

Area businesses that already employ individuals with disabilities include Jewel and Target on Rand Road, XSport Fitness on Dundee Road and Dominick’s on Palatine Road, Danzinger said.

For those that already employ disabled persons, nominations are now being taken for the Disability Employment Awareness Award, Danzinger said, and will be accepted through the end of August.