Including People with Disabilities in National Service Programs

Service and volunteer programs need to be proactive to ensure that everyone - including individuals with disabilities – have the opportunity to serve and to be active participants. Program directors/managers often need more information about accessible and inclusive recruiting or want disability-related information to assist supervisors of members or volunteers with disabilities. The e-courses and other materials found here are a perfect starting place for your queries and a great place to find some training and technical resources. These resources are provided by the Corporation for National and Community Service.

In July 2015, CNCS released two new resources in conjunction with the 25th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): 

• Fostering Inclusive Volunteering and Service Learning –  a guide for youth service professionals which details how youth benefit from volunteering, different types of service opportunities, and strategies to assist youth to prepare for, access, and learn from their experiences. 
• Toolkit for AmeriCorps alumni with disabilities transitioning to employment – this is a collection of resources regarding pre-employment and employment issues for people with disabilities, special programs, government services, and mentorship and networking opportunities.