NOD Turns 30
Organization Refocuses Efforts on Unemployment Among People With Disabilities
The National Organization on Disability (NOD) turned 30 in October. The organization, which represents all types of disabilities, celebrated by renewing its commitment to finding solutions for the employment gap for people with disabilities.
"Through our surveys executed in partnership with Harris Interactive and most recently with Kessler Foundation, we have visibility to a long-term study of what's happening in the lives of people with disabilities," said Carol Glazer, NOD president. "The gap that has been the most intractable, and frankly the one that has the most considerable effect on a good quality of life, is employment. We are developing innovative employment programs that are measurable and results-driven. NOD is committed to reversing these pervasive trends. It is our #1 priority."
A video released by NOD in conjunction with its anniversary further outlines that eight of 10 people with disabilities are unemployed. The video (watch it here) features NOD board member and “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” actor Robert David Hall.
NOD has established several programs to address unemployment, among them the Bridges to Business program that links employers with people with disabilities. Another program, Wounded Warrior Careers helps injured veterans move forward on career paths.
"People with disabilities were not moving the needle in terms of employment gains," said Rodger DeRose, president & CEO of Kessler Foundation. "Working with NOD on programs like Bridges, which has a direct end benefit to employment, is where we can make positive changes for the future of people with disabilities."
Connect with NOD here.