How I Found Meaningful Employment as a Person with a Disability: A Success Story

By Yasmina Saba

Finding employment nowadays is challenging, regardless of whether you have a disability or not. It’s especially difficult for people with disabilities, as they must find a job that meets their needs while ensuring that the accommodations they request do not negatively impact the company’s operations.

Overcoming the Challenges of Job Hunting with a Disability

In a previous blog, we discussed the challenges of finding employment. This time around, I would like to share my own success story and how I got my job at a Center for Independent Living in Maryland.

Building My Skills and Staying Persistent

It took me about two years to find full-time employment. I made changes to my resume using Resume Worded, which scores your resume based on key criteria recruiters and hiring managers look for. I applied to every job I could find that best suited me — even if it was not in my field of practice — because I wanted to gain real-world experience. While I was on the hunt for a job, I earned an accounting certification through my local community college to expand my skill set and make myself more marketable.

Finding the Right Fit: Accessible Resources for Independence

Person in a wheelchair at a desk with a computer and binders of paperwork

When a position opened up at Accessible Resources for Independence, my work coach, Lauren, and I thought it would be an excellent opportunity for me because the organization is dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities live independent, self-directed lives, and it is also run by those who have disabilities.

I initially interviewed in the spring of 2024 for an independent living specialist position. Unfortunately, due to some scheduling conflicts, I was unable to start when they wanted, so the opportunity passed me by. I kept an open line of communication throughout the summer. When the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) offered me a paid internship opportunity, I immediately chose Accessible Resources for Independence as my host organization.

Turning an Internship into a Career

group of workers in an office putting their hands together in the spirit of teamwork

The internship helped me understand the importance of Accessible Resources for independence in the community and build relationships with the staff. During my internship, I was able to showcase my skills in marketing and communications through developing a marketing plan, planning events, conducting research, and having one-on-one meetings with my coworkers.

After my internship ended, they were so impressed with my skills and how well I fit into the organization that they offered me a full-time position.

Gratitude for Support and Resources

I’m very grateful to the resources that I had and the people that assisted me, starting with Kurt, my DORS counselor, Lauren at Work Opportunities Unlimited, and of course, my team at Accessible Resources for Independence, for helping me achieve success in a way that gives back to my community and helps others like me.

Advice for Job Seekers with Disabilities

Patience is key! When you least expect it, an opportunity will arise when the time is right. And remember: It’s OK to ask for help and use the resources available to you, whether that is a center for independent living, vocational rehabilitation services, or a work coach. Many UCP affiliates also offer job training and employment services, so don’t be afraid to reach out and take advantage of all they have to offer.

FIND A UCP AFFILIATE NEAR YOU

About the Author

Yasmina Saba is a dedicated marketing volunteer with UCP, bringing her passion for storytelling and community engagement to the team. With a background in communications, marketing, and nonprofit outreach, she has experience in content creation, social media strategy, and persuasive communication. As someone with cerebral palsy, she is deeply committed to accessibility, advocacy, and independence. Through her contributions, Yasmina hopes to educate the UCP community about what it’s like living with a disability, foster connections with others facing similar challenges, and share valuable insights that empower and uplift. Beyond her volunteer work, Yasmina enjoys traveling, diamond painting, and movies — creative outlets that inspire her.