Findings from a national disability business summit: implications for the field

Abstract

This article summarizes the March, 1997 National Disability Business Summit which wa called by Virginia Commonwealth University-Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (VCU-RRTC) on Supported Employment, EDS and the Dallas Mayor's Committee for the Employment of People with Disabilities. The goal of the Summit, as well as the business methods and strategies to increase the employment of people with disabilities are described. Business leaders from across the country share their ‘companies’ experience with the employment of people with significant disabilities. Both public and private sectors are analyzed to determine their role and impact for increasing the employment outcomes of people with disabilities. Specific action plans and recommendations are presented here by the participating business members.