Work Ability is a program and awareness campaign that lets Utah employers know the benefits of hiring people with disabilities. The program also reaches out to Utahns with disabilities to help them work and still qualify for important benefits like Medicaid. Work Ability links people with resources and strategies to manage their health challenges to help them succeed at work.

The program offers a free, interactive CD, which includes information on recruiting, hiring, financial benefits, and office etiquette for employers who hire those with disabilities. For potential employees, the CD explains the benefits of working, how to find a job, interviewing skills and health resources.

Work Ability is a joint effort of the Utah Department of Health, the Utah State Office of Rehabilitation and the state Department of Workforce Services. It began as part of the national Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act. The program is funded through the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

How do employers benefit by hiring workers with disabilities?

Utah employers benefit from hiring people with disabilities in many ways, including:

* Accessing an untapped labor pool from which to hire dependable workers

* Developing a more diverse work force for new ideas, viewpoints, and approaches for solving business challenges

* Being eligible for economic benefits like tax credits and tax deductions Employing loyal workers

People with disabilities contribute to Utah's workforce.

Studies have shown that people with disabilities:

* Have better retention rates than employees without disabilities, resulting in money saved in training costs

* Perform work just as well as other employees

* Are not absent more than other employees

Work Ability encourages employers to call to receive their free CD. It includes links to helpful local and national Websites and shares success stories of other companies who have successfully hired workers with disabilities. Employers can also use the CD as a guide to tax incentives and workplace accommodations.

What are the benefits of Work Ability for workers who have disabilities?

Working gives people with disabilities: The ability to earn their own money

* The opportunity to contribute to the economy

* Access to enhanced social networks

* The ability to engage in skill building and personal development

People with disabilities want to work and can work. Many who work can continue to receive important health care benefits like the Medicaid Work Incentive and other programs.

How does one become involved in the program or receive more information?

Work Ability also encourages job seekers with disabilities to call for a free CD. The CD provides information about benefits and links to jobs through local and national job banks. Call 1-877-2GO-WORK (246-9675) or visit http://www.workabilityutah.org to get a copy.