New Year's resolution: getting a job

The unemployment rate in the spinal cord injury community has remained sky high for many years. However, if you have the willingness and physical ability to work, there are many resources out there that can help support such ambitions. One such significant resource is the Department of Rehabilitation (DOR). DOR is a state agency that assists people with disabilities to enter the work force or return to work. It has offices throughout the state.

Individuals with a disability who require services to prepare for, enter, engage in, or retain gainful employment are eligible for DOR's services. They would work with you to help formulate and achieve your employment goals which involves working with your counselor to develop a plan to determine the steps necessary for you to reach your goals.

The reality of the situation is that the department is always looking for candidates to support, this in an age of reduction in sources and funding from governmental agencies. It all starts with an assessment/interview session.

For example, DOR helps pay for training or college tuition, textbooks, equipment, Internet access, transportation, tutoring and more at public colleges. As long as the candidate is serious and achieves all the goals that are set out, DOR will be supporting you financially.

So, if you've been wondering about how you can enter the workforce and feel supported, make connecting with DOR your New Year's resolution.