Groundbreaking study contradicts perceptions about employing people with disabilities

In a first-of-its-kind study unveiled to Chicago-region business leaders on January 28, a team of researchers at DePaul University discussed research results that found employees with disabilities from the healthcare, retail and hospitality sectors in the region were just as dependable and productive as employees without disabilities. In addition, researchers also discussed research results that showed accommodation costs associated with workers with disabilities were often minimal and well worth the expense.

These groundbreaking study results contradict many perceptions held by employers about employing persons with disabilities, and show that this pool of workers has much to give to employers to meet current and future workforce demands.

DCEO Director Jack Lavin at the CEOs Forum Photo at left: DCEO Director Jack Lavin discusses the Economic Impact Study at the CEOs Forum.

This study was commissioned by the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce's disabilityworks initiative, and made possible through a grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. A subsequent financial contribution was made by the Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities.

See press release for more information.

disabilityworks DePaul Study results are available in the following formats:

Executive Summary: Microsoft Word Document or PDF File
Comprehensive Results: Microsoft Word Document or PDF File
Slide Presentation: Microsoft PowerPoint