One American in five has a disability, making people with disabilities the largest minority group in our country. It is also true that disability is a natural part of life, and it can happen to anyone. Yet, disability in no way diminishes a person's right to live independently; enjoy self-determination; make choices; contribute to society; pursue meaningful careers; and enjoy full inclusion and integration in the economic, political, social, cultural, and education mainstream of American society.

 

The 2007 Disability Status Report states that the employment rate of working-age people with disabilities in SD was 46.4 percent, while the employment rate of working-age people without disabilities in SD was 86.2 percent. It also reports that the percentage of working-age people with disabilities working full-time/full-year in SD was 23.8 percent while the percentage of working-age people without disabilities working full-time/full-year in SD was 63.8 percent.

People with disabilities seek access to the same social, cultural, economic and recreational activities enjoyed by all. Yet, people with disabilities are often an untapped source of skilled, innovative and dedicated employees. This section of our website offers people with disabilities and family members practical information about employment, work incentives available to encourage the employment of persons with disabilities and much more that we hope will help people with disabilities plan for and attain their career goals.