Our mission is to empower individuals with disabilities by promoting independence, community integration, personal choice, and self-advocacy. A key component in achieving these goals—and ultimately achieving long-term financial independence—is understanding the rights and protections afforded by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  

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What Is the ADA? 

Enacted in 1990, the ADA prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and all public and private places open to the general public. Its purpose is to ensure that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else, empowering them to pursue financial independence without barriers. 

How the ADA Supports Your Financial Independence 

The ADA lays the groundwork for a more accessible and equitable workforce. By ensuring fair treatment in the hiring process, providing reasonable accommodations, and protecting against discrimination, the ADA allows you to secure meaningful employment and career advancement—key elements in becoming financially self-sufficient. 

Key Titles of the ADA That Support Employment and Independence: 

  1. Employment (Title I): Employers with 15 or more employees must provide equal opportunities to qualified individuals with disabilities that can perform competitive employment. This includes offering reasonable accommodations to help you succeed in your job. These protections allow you to find and keep employment that suits your skills, leading to increased income and independence. 
  2. State and Local Government Services (Title II): Public programs and services must be accessible, including vocational rehabilitation and job training programs that are often crucial stepping stones to employment. If you’re working with Employment Networks like us or a State VR agency, this title helps ensure the support you receive is fully accessible. 
  3. Public Accommodations (Title III): Places like job training centers, educational institutions, and community resources must be accessible. These environments are often critical as you pursue training and education that opens the door to higher-paying work. 
  4. Telecommunications (Title IV): This ensures you have equal access to communication tools needed for modern employment—such as text relay services or captioned telephone services—making remote and on-site jobs more attainable. 

How DSA Helps You Use the ADA to Your Advantage 

We help you identify occupations that match your capabilities so you can apply for employment competitively and overcome any barriers you may have in securing employment.  The ADA does to guarantee or require employers to hire you & it does not require employers to provide accommodations.  We recommend you apply to jobs that match your interests.  Even if you can perform a job, you have to want to perform all essential functions of the job.  The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is seperate from the Social Security Act and rules associated with obtaining and maintaining eligibility for Social Security Benefits.   

Remember! If you would like to return to competitive employment, we can assist you so access real opportunities for growth and stability when your Ticket to Work is assigned through: 

  • Employment Support: We help you find jobs, request accommodations, and grow in your career so you can earn a livable wage and become self-sufficient. 
  • Ticket to Work Program: We guide you through this SSA-sponsored program designed to help beneficiaries find and maintain employment without immediately losing their benefits. 
  • Educational and Training Access: We help you understand and access the programs and protections you’re entitled to as you pursue further education or job training. 
  • Benefits Counseling: Our team helps you understand how working affects your disability benefits and how to transition toward financial independence while staying compliant with SSA rules. 

Empowerment Through Knowledge 

By understanding the ADA and working with your Employment Network, you can build a path to employment, career growth, and long-term financial independence. Whether you're just beginning your return-to-work journey or looking for guidance on your next steps, we’re here to help you move forward—confidently and supported.