Introduction

Employment gives people with Down syndrome the opportunity to improve their skills, knowledge and self-worth, while being appreciated by others. Being employed allows them to meet new people and make important, lasting connections. Most importantly, being employed can help improve mental and physical wellness, inclusion and independence.

The Employment Planning Hub is divided into sections that provide an overview of employment topics along with questions and exercises to help guide and prepare the individual with Down syndrome for employment.   Each section also includes links to resources that help explore the section topics further.

A Career Action Plan and Employability Skills Tracker are provided to help the job seeker keep track of important information that can be reviewed and discussed throughout the employment process.  This information will support the development of the career portfolio that can be used and referred to throughout their career and shared with an employment service provider (if available in their area) to help with the employment process.

• Everyday Opportunities and Employability
• Motivations and Stages of Change (SOC)
• Your Rights and Responsibilities

• What is Important to You?
• Your Interests and Employability Skills
• Learning New Skills

• Matching Your Skills with Job Choices
• Discovering Job Options and Occupational Profiles

• Where to Start
• What to Include
• Cover Letters and References

• Who’s in Your Network?
• Applying for Work
• Interviews and Accommodations

• Showing Up and Being Present
• Staying Employed

• Why Hire a Person with a Disability
• Making Your Workplace Accessible
• Building Workplace Capacity