People with Disabilities
Through the Employing Abilities at Work initiative, SHRM Foundation equips HR professionals with the tools, education, and guidance needed to confidently recruit, hire, retain, and advance individuals with disabilities across the entire employment lifecycle.
Join us in creating workplaces where individuals with disabilities can thrive and contribute fully.
The Importance of Employing Abilities
At 22 million U.S. adults, people with disabilities represent a large, talented, and underutilized segment of the workforce. They bring valuable perspectives, problem-solving skills, and persistence that enhance team performance and innovation. Research shows that companies leading in disability employment see higher revenues, greater net income, and stronger economic profit—proving that disability inclusion is both a business advantage and a moral imperative.
Gain the tools to confidently recruit, hire, and retain individuals with disabilities.
97%
HR professionals report that employees with disabilities regularly perform as well as — or better than — their peers.
59%
Employers report that employees with disabilities perform as well as or better than their peers in terms of job performance.
93%
Employees say their organization is a better place to work because it is disability-friendly.
Unlocking Potential for People with Disabilities
More than 22 million working-age Americans live with disabilities, yet many face persistent barriers to employment that limit their full participation in the workforce. People with disabilities bring diverse talents, unique problem-solving skills, and strong dedication to their jobs, yet stigma and outdated assumptions often prevent employers from tapping into this valuable talent pool. Research consistently shows that employees with disabilities perform at or above the level of their peers, contributing to stronger, more innovative teams.
SHRM Foundation’s Employing Abilities at Work initiative provides HR professionals, hiring managers, and business leaders with practical tools, education, and strategies to confidently recruit, hire, and support employees with disabilities throughout the entire employment lifecycle. From accessible recruitment practices to workplace accommodations and retention strategies, the initiative empowers organizations to create environments where people with disabilities can thrive.
Embracing the skills and contributions of employees with disabilities is a business imperative that drives innovation, improves employee engagement, and strengthens organizational success.
Research
Four strategies (addressing unconscious bias, training employees, partnering with community organizations, and fostering supportive internal networks) to update organizational hiring and employment policies for people with disabilities.
Published by Harvard Business Review
A road map for including disability in policies, operations, and analytical work; and building internal capacity for supporting clients in implementing disability-inclusive development programs.
Published by World Bank
A detailed analysis of airline accessibility issues, evaluating regulatory compliance, passenger experiences, and organizational best practices to improve equitable and effective air travel for business people with disabilities.
Published by SHRM Foundation
Resources and Tools
This free SHRM Foundation program equips HR professionals and managers with practical skills and tools to successfully recruit, hire, and support employees with disabilities.
A breakdown of the definition and boundaries of disability, which links to a variety of additional resources and sources.
A comprehensive digital guide (PDF format) full of practical tools, checklists, Q&A, and compliance guidance designed to help employers confidently hire and support justice-impacted individuals.
Funders and Partners
