About the Grantee
New York State Industries for the Disabled, Inc. (NYSID) was established in 1975 and is based in Albany, NY. NYSID is a non-profit membership organization with a mission of “advancing employment and other opportunities for individuals with disabilities and qualified veterans.” NYSID’s members are the rehabilitative organizations throughout NYS who provide support services to individuals with disabilities, one of those supports being employment.
Project Summary
New York State Industries for the Disabled, Inc. (NYSID) is creating an employee certification program called the Hiring for Corporate Responsibility Employee Certification Program that trains New York Employers on how to effectively and inclusively hire people with disabilities. Polling of NYS voters by Global Services Group found that 93% of bipartisan voters agreed that it is important for workplaces to be inclusive. However, only 42% believe employers in NY are currently doing enough to support disabled individuals. This certification program will provide a streamlined, time-efficient method for employers to help bridge the knowledge gap needed for hiring and inclusion.
During the two-year grant period, NYSID will create a series of 10-12 courses covering topics most helpful to ensuring inclusive, effective hiring and retention of individuals with disabilities. The program will have a public launch in quarter four of year one with an initial six courses. In year two, they will add an additional 4-6 courses. This program will be targeted at HR professionals and hiring agents. Courses will be developed in conjunction with expert resources.
Grant activities will include:
- Complete polling and needs assessments to understand preferred formatting and potential barriers to a certification program
- Work with partner agencies and expert resources to develop course material
- Build out course programs in an interactive e-learning platform
- Launch initial six courses:
- Course 1 - Employment First & The Social Impact of Hiring,
- Course 2 - ADA Compliance,
- Course 3 - Accommodations,
- Course 4 - The Hiring Process,
- Course 5 - The Financial Aspects,
- Course 6 - Building An Inclusive Environment
Project Details
Project Length: 2 Years
Contract Start: April 1, 2026
Geographic Reach: Statewide
Total Funding: $150,000 per year
Current Status: Active