Janet Holman Gillin’s career in human services began with a simple yet profound goal: to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals who face significant challenges. Her journey started after she earned a degree in education from Wichita State University.
Early in her career, Janet worked in Kansas on child welfare programs, helping to reunite families and stabilize at-risk children. This experience sparked a lifelong commitment to advocacy and support services, especially for individuals facing unique barriers in life. Now, with decades of experience in human services, Janet’s work continues to make a difference, particularly in the growing employment rate for people with disabilities.
Over the last few years, there has been a significant rise in the employment rate of individuals with disabilities. According to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment rate for people with disabilities has steadily increased, reaching its highest levels in over a decade. This is encouraging news, especially considering that for years, individuals with disabilities often faced many barriers when it came to securing meaningful employment.
The impact of this rise can be felt in many ways. More individuals with disabilities are not only finding jobs but are also thriving in their careers. Companies are beginning to see the value that these individuals bring to the workplace, including unique perspectives, dedication, and a strong work ethic. Janet Holman Gillin, with her years of experience, has seen firsthand how the tides are changing.
Janet’s work is part of a larger trend that focuses on supporting individuals with disabilities as they transition into the workforce. One key area where she has been instrumental is providing resources and guidance on how to navigate the job market. Her work extends beyond just job placement—it’s about empowering people to succeed and thrive in their positions. This holistic approach has played a critical role in the increase in employment rates.
An example of this impact is seen in the program Janet helped develop in her community. She worked closely with local employers to create internship opportunities tailored to individuals with disabilities. One of the key features of the program was providing job coaches to ensure a smooth transition into the workplace. These coaches helped individuals learn job skills, understand workplace dynamics, and build confidence. The result? Many individuals went on to secure long-term positions in the companies they interned with.
The importance of programs like this cannot be overstated. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment-population ratio for people with disabilities was 19.3% in 2022, up from 17.9% in 2020. This increase in employment reflects a broader societal shift, where more people are recognizing the valuable contributions individuals with disabilities can make. Janet’s department has been a significant contributor to this trend, offering training, advocacy, and direct support to both job seekers and employers.
But while progress is being made, challenges remain. Despite the rising employment rates, individuals with disabilities still face obstacles. These include workplace accommodations, accessible transportation, and biases that can linger in hiring practices. Janet’s department continues to work on these issues by offering education and support to employers, ensuring they understand how to make their workplaces inclusive and accessible.
Additionally, Janet’s work focuses on providing support to individuals with disabilities beyond just job placement. Her department helps with resume building, interview preparation, and navigating the complexities of workplace culture. By taking these steps, Janet ensures that individuals with disabilities not only find employment but also have the tools they need to succeed in their careers.
Janet has seen the changes in the workforce and continues to be an advocate for the rights of individuals with disabilities. She believes that as more companies embrace inclusive hiring practices, the employment landscape will continue to evolve. And this evolution is already happening.
More businesses are recognizing the benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities, not just from a social responsibility standpoint but from a business perspective as well. Individuals with disabilities bring unique skills and perspectives to the table, and companies that embrace diversity and inclusion see a more engaged and productive workforce.
Janet is optimistic about the future. “We have made great strides in increasing employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities,” she says. “But there’s still more work to be done. We must continue to advocate for equal opportunities and ensure that individuals with disabilities can access the resources they need to succeed.”
The rising employment rate of individuals with disabilities is a positive trend that continues to gain momentum. Janet Holman Gillin’s work and the efforts of her department have played a significant role in this progress. As society continues to embrace diversity and inclusion, the future looks bright for individuals with disabilities in the workforce. With the support of dedicated professionals like Janet, more individuals with disabilities will have the opportunity to contribute their talents and thrive in meaningful careers.
