One of the most effective ways to enhance these qualities is by embracing inclusive hiring practices, especially when it comes to employing individuals with disabilities. Inclusive hiring not only enriches your workforce diversity, but also brings unique perspectives that can drive innovation and growth.

Studies have shown that 92% of consumers feel more favorably toward companies that hire individuals with disabilities, and more than 33% of respondents prefer to give their business to companies that employ people with disabilities (Siperstein, Romano, Mohler, & Parker, 2006).

Benefits of a Diverse Workforce

Enhanced Innovation and Problem Solving

Employees with disabilities bring unique experiences and viewpoints that can inspire creative solutions and innovation. A study from the Center for Talent Innovation found that companies with diverse teams are 45% more likely to report growth in market share over the previous year and 70% more likely to capture a new market. (Source: Harvard Business Review)

Broader Talent Pool

By actively seeking to employ individuals with disabilities, businesses tap into a wider talent pool, gaining access to skilled professionals who can contribute significantly to their operations and culture.

Improved Employee Engagement and Morale

Workplaces committed to diversity and inclusion tend to have higher employee engagement and morale. This positive work environment leads to lower turnover rates and higher employee satisfaction, which is ultimately a strong benefit for any company’s bottom line.

Resources For Hiring People With Disabilities

Central Oregon offers a wealth of resources to assist businesses in adopting inclusive hiring practices. Here are some organizations that can provide support, training, and assistance:

Diversability Village: The go-to resource for the disability community in Central Oregon; this one-stop-shop links people with disabilities to resources such as employment opportunities, service providers, housing, service eligibility, recreation, activities, support groups, and so much more. They are a great team to reach out to for support with hiring people with disabilities in Central Oregon.

Central Oregon Disability Support Network: Provides resources and support to individuals with disabilities and their families, including employment resources.

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services: Offers employment and training services to help individuals with disabilities find suitable employment. 

Job Accommodation Network (JAN): A leading source of free, expert, and confidential guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues.

Federal/State Incentives For Hiring People With Disabilities

Both the Federal and Oregon State governments provide several incentives for businesses that hire individuals with disabilities. Some of these include:

• Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC): A Federal tax credit available to employers for hiring individuals from certain targeted groups, including people with disabilities.
• Disabled Access Credit: Small businesses can claim a tax credit for certain expenditures incurred to provide access to persons with disabilities, including removing barriers, purchasing equipment, and providing services like interpreters.
• Architectural/Transportation Tax Deduction: Businesses can claim a deduction for expenses incurred to remove physical, structural, and transportation barriers for people with disabilities.

Fostering an inclusive workplace by hiring individuals with disabilities is not just a matter of compliance or social responsibility—it's a strategic business decision that can significantly contribute to your company's innovation, culture, and bottom line. By leveraging the resources and incentives available, businesses in Central Oregon can lead the way in building diverse, inclusive, and high-performing teams.

Looking for more inspiration and resources on how to integrate inclusive hiring practices into your business? Check out this page put together by the State of Oregon, which includes some inspiring success stories!

Please note, the City of Bend does not endorse any of the products, vendors, consultants, or documentation referenced within these pages. Any mention of vendors, products, or services is for informational purposes and meant to serve as examples of businesses and organizations digitally working to provide accessible outcomes. 

There are many statutes, rules, and regulations that require certain disability accommodations, including Federal and Oregon State laws. This webpage is intended to provide resources and information related to such accommodations; it does not constitute legal advice.