IDD Employment Podcast Series
At the California Policy Center for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (CPCIDD), understanding barriers, challenges and successes to employment for people with IDD is a priority. Through our research we closely examine the multifaceted challenges that impede competitive, integrated employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). By drawing on best practices, academic findings, and the real-world perspectives of people with IDD, their families, and employers, we highlight critical gaps and barriers to employment—from limited vocational training and fear of losing benefits to workplace accommodations and enduring stereotypes that hinder advancement.
With funding from Ability Central we are able to further our research and provide policy recommendations designed to reduce barriers to employment and increase opportunities not only for people with IDD but employers as well. We look forward to sharing our findings, resources, and community conversations centered on strengthening inclusive employment practices. We are excited to share the first episode in a series of podcasts that highlight community conversations about employment for people with IDD.
For more information, visit www.cpcidd.org
IDD Employment Podcast Series
Work, Will, and Worth: IDD Perspectives on Employment
CPCIDD Board Member and Self-Advocate Azucena Garcia-Ferro hosts Episode 3 of CPCIDD’s IDD Employment Podcast, funded by Ability Central. Self-advocates Tracy, Joe, and Scott describe their journeys into work—starting early jobs, long-term positions in day programs and restaurants, and moves into advocacy and entrepreneurship. They name persistent barriers such as low expectations, flat-rate pay, benefit concerns, and gaps in supports, and highlight what helps: peer networks, community encouragement, individualized supports, training, and opportunities to demonstrate skills.
This episode offers firsthand perspectives useful to policymakers, providers, employers, families, and self-advocates who want practical insight into improving employment outcomes for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Visit cpcidd.org to explore the rest of the IDD Employment Podcast Series.