How to Help a Person with Down Syndrome Find a Job

Employment can be a challenge for people with Down syndrome, as they often face discrimination and lack of understanding from employers. However, with the right support and resources, people with Down syndrome can lead fulfilling lives, including successful careers. Here are some tips for helping individuals with Down syndrome find employment:

1. Start early: Begin preparing for employment while the person is still in school. Encourage them to participate in vocational training programs and internships to gain experience and build a resume.
   
2. Identify strengths and interests: People with Down syndrome, like all individuals, have unique skills and passions. Identify these and use them to find a job that is well suited to the person's abilities.
   
3. Network: Connect with organizations that support folks with Down syndrome and promote employment opportunities. These organizations can provide valuable resources (see below) and support for job seekers.
   
4. Advocate: Many employers may not understand the capabilities of people with Down syndrome. Be an advocate and educate employers about the benefits of hiring someone with Down syndrome.
   
5. Be flexible: Be open to different types of employment, including part-time or flexible schedules. This can make it easier for the individual to find a job that works for them.
   
6. Provide ongoing support: Once they've has found a job, provide ongoing support to ensure their success. This can include mentoring, job coaching, and accommodations to ensure that the individual can perform their job to the best of their abilities.

By following these tips, individuals with Down syndrome can find meaningful and fulfilling employment. It is important to remember that each person is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Be patient and persistent in your efforts, and don't give up on helping they find a job they will excel in.

Here is a list of resources to help with the job search:

1. The Arc: https://www.thearc.org/what-we-do/employment-and-economic-advancement The Arc is a national organization that supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through employment services, job training programs, and other resources.
   
2. National Collaborative on Workforce and Disability for Youth (NCWD/Youth): https://youth.gov/federal-agencies/national-collaborative-workforce-disability-youth NCWD/Youth provides resources and support for young people with disabilities who are transitioning to adulthood and the workforce.
   
3. Goodwill Industries International: https://www.goodwill.org/our-programs/job-training-services/ Goodwill Industries offers job training and employment services for people with disabilities, including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
   
4. The Institute for Community Inclusion (ICI): https://www.communityinclusion.org/areas-of-emphasis/employmentICI provides employment support and training for people with disabilities, including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
   
5. Job Accommodation Network (JAN): https://askjan.org/ JAN provides free consulting services to employers and employees with disabilities, including accommodations for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
   
6. The Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP): https://www.dol.gov/odep ODEP is a U.S. government agency that provides resources and support for employers and employees with disabilities, including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
   
7. The National Down Syndrome Society: https://www.ndss.org/resources/employment/ The National Down Syndrome Society provides resources and support for people with Down syndrome, including employment resources.
   
8. The National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD): https://www.nacdd.org/resources/ NACDD provides resources and support for individuals with developmental disabilities, including employment resources.

These resources can provide valuable information, support, and guidance for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are searching for gainful employment. It is important to note that some resources may vary depending on location and availability, so it is best to check with the organization or the website for more information.