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Why San Diego’s Businesses Are Embracing Employees With Disabilities

Update Unlocking Potential: The Case for Hiring Employees with Disabilities As we celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month this October, San Diego is witnessing a remarkable shift in the workforce narrative. Businesses are no longer viewing employees with disabilities as a charitable choice but rather as a vital, untapped resource filled with potential. The theme this year, "Talent and Value," emphasizes the remarkable contributions these individuals bring to the workplace. Success Stories from San Diego A shining example of this new perspective is SeaWorld San Diego, which has hired employees with disabilities for decades. Sean Daugherty, the Park Operations Manager, shares, "We see really good performance and high retention when hiring people with disabilities. They show commitment and bring joy to our work environment." Legacy Resort Hotel and Spa has also noted the significant impact of employing individuals with disabilities. Their experiences, particularly with custodian Ben Godown, illustrate how a dedicated employee can uplift an entire team, as General Manager Brad Naucler states, "Ben sets the example for everyone in the hotel. He has a keen attention to detail and is one of our most conscientious employees." At Soapy Joe’s, with 15 locations across the county, a similar trend is observed. Their Director of Human Resources, Julie Smith, highlighted a 94% retention rate for employees with disabilities, which she attributes to their reliability and strong performance. Mauricio Cardenas, an Operations Manager there, adds, "They are great to work with and have greatly enhanced our operations." Breaking Down Barriers: The Importance of Inclusion Despite these success stories, many businesses remain hesitant to hire individuals with disabilities due to misconceptions. Common concerns include the costs associated with accommodations and doubts about the capabilities of disabled workers. Research indicates that these fears are often unfounded. For instance, studies show that the financial impact of accommodations tends to be minimal, while the benefits—a dedicated workforce and innovative problem solvers—can be significant. Interestingly, the participation rate of individuals with disabilities in the labor market is alarmingly low, only around 25% in San Diego, compared to nearly 75% for those without disabilities. This disparity highlights not just a lack of opportunity, but also reveals how breaking down barriers can unlock vast potential. Innovative Skills and Unique Perspectives Hiring individuals with disabilities introduces a diverse set of skills that can enhance creativity and innovation within a business. For instance, employees with autism often excel in roles requiring attention to detail and pattern recognition. This unique perspective can lead to innovative solutions and improved business practices. By recognizing the capabilities of all employees, businesses foster a rich tapestry of ideas and approaches that can drive success. The Economic Impact of Inclusion Adopting inclusive hiring practices not only benefits employees with disabilities but also strengthens businesses. Research by Accenture suggests that companies focusing on diversity outperform their peers, achieving 30% higher profit margins and twice the net income. This demonstrates that embracing inclusion can have a profound economic impact. Steps for Local Businesses in Bakersfield As businesses in Bakersfield look to implement inclusive practices, there are actionable steps to consider. Job postings should be clear and accessible, avoiding jargon that may deter potential applicants. Ensure that the application process is navigable for all, including individuals using screen readers or other assistive devices. Creating a supportive interview process can also make a difference. Flexibility, additional time, and the option for candidates to bring support persons can help build a comfortable environment that allows for true potential to shine. A Call to Action: Building a Brighter Future San Diego businesses are leading the way in recognizing the value of employees with disabilities, and this movement offers a model for others to follow. By adopting inclusive hiring practices, businesses in Bakersfield can enhance workplace morale, drive productivity, and contribute to a thriving local economy. Let this cornerstone of awareness during National Disability Employment Awareness Month encourage local leaders to invest in a more inclusive future.