{"id":241958,"date":"2025-09-20T17:41:27","date_gmt":"2025-09-20T17:41:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/241958\/"},"modified":"2025-09-20T17:41:27","modified_gmt":"2025-09-20T17:41:27","slug":"how-san-diego-businesses-can-support-employees-with-disabilities","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/us\/241958\/","title":{"rendered":"How San Diego Businesses can support employees with disabilities"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Wheelchair\"<\/a>(Photo courtesy of Defense Contract Audit Agency)<\/p>\n

Finding a job is hard enough. For people with intellectual or developmental disabilities, that challenge is compounded by transportation barriers, differences in communication styles, or a lack of support navigating the interview process. These obstacles keep far too many qualified candidates out of the workforce.<\/p>\n

\"Opinion<\/a><\/p>\n

The data tells the story. According to San Diego County\u2019s\u00a0equity report<\/a>, just over one-quarter of people with disabilities participate in the labor force, compared to nearly three-quarters of those without disabilities. The gap isn\u2019t always about ability or motivation. Access and opportunity are factors here.<\/p>\n

Most people want to work. They want purpose, connection to their community, and the chance to contribute. Breaking down stereotypes and removing barriers is the first step toward unlocking that potential.<\/p>\n

This October, during National Disability Employment Awareness Month<\/a>, San Diego business leaders have a unique opportunity to lead the way. By raising awareness, creating inclusive practices, and championing equity in hiring, we can help ensure every person has the chance to bring their skills to the table, and strengthen our community in the process.<\/p>\n

San Diego\u2019s Path to an inclusive economy<\/p>\n

In its\u00a02025 Inclusive Growth Progress Report<\/a>, the San Diego Regional EDC evaluated how the region is tracking toward its 2030 Inclusive Growth Framework goals. While San Diego is making progress, significant accessibility gaps remain.<\/p>\n

Small businesses, responsible for nearly 60% of local employment, are central to this effort. Yet many continue to struggle with retention, talent shortages, and the rising costs of housing, transportation, and living expenses that strain household affordability. Despite these challenges, the region is closing in on its 2030 milestone, with\u00a048,481 new\u00a0<\/a>quality jobs already added. For context, a \u201cquality job\u201d is defined as a role at a business with fewer than 100 employees that pays at least $23 per hour and provides health insurance.\u00a0<\/p>\n

From workshops to internships and apprenticeship programs, San Diego businesses have multiple pathways to grow their workforce while fostering inclusion.<\/p>\n

Research consistently shows that businesses embracing diversity and inclusion achieve stronger results than their competitors. According to a report from\u00a0Accenture<\/a>, organizations that prioritize disability inclusion report 30% higher profit margins, 28% greater revenue, and twice the net income compared with companies that do not focus on inclusive practices.<\/p>\n

Steps that turn intentions into impact<\/p>\n

By embracing the unique strengths and needs of each individual, San Diego businesses can unlock untapped potential, lead by example, and make a meaningful impact on both the community and their bottom line.<\/p>\n

Here are some actionable ways you can make processes more inclusive:\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n