Sessions

Ready, Willing and ABLE to WORK – How You Can Tap Individuals with Down Syndrome in Your Workforce

The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), the leading human rights organization for all individuals with Down syndrome, believes that employment for all individuals with Down syndrome (and other disabilities) is a fundamental human right and that all work has dignity and purpose. With the unemployment rate at a rare low, the time is now for all businesses, from Main Street to Wall Street, to invest in hiring individuals with Down syndrome.

NDSS walks the walk, and talks the talk – 25% of its staff has Down syndrome; and through NDSS’ #DSWORKS® Employment Program, the organization partners with businesses of all shapes and sizes to place individuals with Down syndrome in competitive careers, provides resources and trainings to all employment stakeholders and develops meaningful and strategic partnerships with corporations that embrace and align with NDSS mission and values.

Speakers and fierce advocates Weir and McKeon, through their own personal stories and experience, will highlight how NDSS is leading the way on Capitol Hill and in state capitals across America, through its #LawSyndrome Campaign, to ensure individuals will have a seat at the table when it comes to ending archaic, outdated laws that hold individuals with Down syndrome back from pursuing their own career dreams and passions.

McKeon is the first registered lobbyist with Down syndrome; and Weir leads the world’s largest Down syndrome advocacy organization.