For many people, a job is mostly seen as a source of income. And of course, income matters. A paycheck can help with daily needs, personal goals, family responsibilities, and greater financial independence. But after many years working with individuals with disabilities and their families, I have learned that employment can mean much more than money. For many of the people we serve at Employment Network of SW Florida, work can become a doorway to confidence, routine, connection, purpose, and...

According to May 2026 data from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy, the unemployment rate for people with disabilities was 9.1%, compared to 3.8% for people without disabilities. That is more than twice as high. This gap is real. When I look at employment statistics for people with disabilities, I do not just see numbers. I see people. I see the young adult who wants to work but does not know where to start. I see the parent who wants their son or daughter...

Graduation season is a meaningful time for many families. There are photos, ceremonies, proud moments, and the feeling that one chapter is coming to an end. For families of young adults with disabilities, this season can also bring a new set of questions. What happens after high school? Is work a realistic next step? How can my son or daughter build more independence? What kind of support is available? Will working affect disability benefits? Where do we even begin? These questions are...