Programs and Services

Are There Programs to Help People With Disabilities? .
For Employers .
Governor's Committee .
Where to Get Help .
Resources

Are There Programs to Help People with Disabilities?

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program – If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you can receive interpretive, job placement, and follow-up services to help you find a job or receive EDD services. Contact EDD by using the TTY toll free numbers, which will put you in direct contact with a representative:

• Disability Insurance: (TTY) 1–800–563–2441
• Employment Tax: (TTY) 1–800–547–9565
• Unemployment Insurance (TTY) 1–800–815–9387

Disability Insurance (DI) — If you are unable to work due to a non-work related illness, injury, or pregnancy, you may be eligible for short-term disability insurance benefits.

Intensive Services Program – If you have a disability, you may be eligible for services such as:

• Job search referrals and placement assistance
• Labor market information
• Job search workshops
• Fidelity bonding
• Referrals for supportive services and training

Jobs for All (JFA) Program – Looking for work? Our specialists will work with you one-on-one to identify your skills and help you find a job.

Veterans Services Program – Special assistance is available for veterans with disabilities.

Workforce Investment Act (WIA) – Under this program, you may qualify for:

• Tutoring, study skills training, and instruction leading to completion of secondary school
• Alternative school services
• Mentoring
• Paid and unpaid work experience (such as internships, apprenticeships, and job shadowing)
• Occupational skills training
• Leadership development
• Guidance counseling
• Supportive services and follow up

For Employers

People with disabilities represent a rich talent pool that is often overlooked. When employers hire qualified employees with disabilities, they discover untapped skills, talents, and abilities. Employers can gain workers who:

• Are qualified
• Have a strong work ethic
• Are dependable and subject to the same performance standards as all other employees

EDD Job Services for Employers - The EDD provides immediate access to the largest single source of qualified, job-ready people in your community and the State. Post job openings on-line, get referrals for pre-screened candidates who meet specific criteria, and learn about tax benefits for hiring people with disabilities - at no cost.

Jobs for All (JFA) Program - Provides employers with immediate access to a skilled, talented pool of workers. Specialized staff will screen and refer only the most qualified applicants. You pay nothing in recruitment, screening, advertising, or referral fees. For more information on Jobs for All, contact your local EDD field office.

Tax Credits to Save You Money - Hiring people with disabilities makes good business sense. In addition to gaining skilled employees, employers may qualify for a variety of federal tax credits.

Governor's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities

The California Governor's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities (Governor's Committee) is responsible for providing leadership to increase the number of people with disabilities in the California workforce. The Governor's Committee is also responsible for implementing California's Workforce Inclusion Act, Assembly Bill 925, which names and empowers the Governor's Committee to undertake activities to ensure improved employment opportunities for people with disabilities. The Governor's Committee provides a forum through which key State departments, boards and councils, local service providers, business leaders and the disability community can collaborate to develop a comprehensive strategy that will result in an increased rate of employment for people with disabilities.

The Governor's Committee consists of appointed and mandated public and private members and receives staff support from the Employment Development Department (in the Labor and Workforce Development Agency). It is mandated to meet quarterly, in conjunction with the California Health Incentives Improvement Project (CHIIP).

The Governor's Committee also partners with other entities in developing, providing and administering the following programs:

• Forms and Publications – Disability-related forms and publications
• Media Access Awards – This unique event recognizes outstanding productions, individual contributions, and corporate achievements in the media industry that promote accurate portrayals of people with disabilities and promote hiring performers with disabilities.
• National Disability Employment Awareness Month – This campaign in October gives statewide emphasis to the employment of people with disabilities.
• Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) – Held each year, this successful forum offers an opportunity for students with disabilities to develop skills which will be useful as they enter into the world of work.

Where to Get Help

Job Service Offices – Find out how EDD can help you find a job and how to apply for EDD services.

One-Stop Career Centers – "One-stop shops" for all of your employment and training needs. Most centers offer:

• Job search assistance
• Job listings
• Access to phones, Internet, printers, fax machines, copy machines
• Workshops
• Information on wages and trends
• Community resources
• Referrals to other services
• And more

Resources

The California State Employment Development Department is a recipient of federal and state funds, is an equal opportunity employer/program, and is in compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Special requests for alternate formats need to be made by calling (916) 654-8055.

For information on civil rights, education, employment, housing, transportation, government benefits (including Social Security) and more, visit the federal Web site of disability-related government resources at www.disabilityinfo.gov.