2020 Annual Report - Employment
2020 Annual Report - Employment
drc Addresses the Diverse Needs of Workers with Disabilities During the Pandemic
On March 19, 2020, Governor Newsom issued an order that all Californians should shelter in place to preserve health and safety. Under the order, individuals who work in essential sectors were encouraged to continue working, and others were asked to transition to working from home. In response, drc acted quickly to assist Californians with disabilities who had questions about their work, how to navigate systems during this time, and meet the needs of our communities.
In April through June of 2020, drc hosted the COVID-19 Employment Training Series that consisted of five sessions focusing on:
- Employment benefits and Social Security for persons who experienced a job loss or a reduction in work hours;
- Employment services for people who receive services and those with new needs as the result of remote work or COVID-19 exposure-related concerns;
- COVID-19 and reasonable accommodations in the workplace;
- Employment services to help workers with disabilities retain their employment; and
- Best Practices for Employers and Businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Training Series was made available state-wide in English, Spanish, and ASL using a virtual format. The total number of attendees for the COVID-19 Employment Training Series was over 600 people. Additionally, the trainings were recorded and made available to community members visiting our website for resources and information.
Looking Forward
With national unemployment rates at an all-time high, it’s important, now more than ever, to increase access and opportunity, so everyone in our communities has equal opportunity to live their lives!
drc will continue to work to ensure people with disabilities can work in competitive integrated employment and make informed decisions about their jobs. drc will also help people with disabilities access education and training to prepare for employment, obtain services and supports needed to participate in meaningful careers, and remove barriers to work for our community.
