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February 11, 2007
This weekly column contains information and tips on the realities of today's job market and career-training opportunities in South Florida.
Success in finding employment for people with disabilities takes commitment from local organizations interested in exploring opportunities and ready to take the lead to make things happen.
The Hyatt Regency Miami is among those ready to take the lead.
Simeon Hardy, director of human resources, introduced the hotel's ''Hands on Education Culinary Arts Training Program'' to members of the Miami Business Leadership Network.
The program provides on-the-job training for people with disabilities ready to enter the workplace.
Originally developed by the Hyatt Hotels in Tampa, the results of the training have been very promising for people with disabilities in the Tampa and Orlando and now the Miami area.
The program introduces individuals who are too high functioning for intensive supportive employment to 100 hours of on-the-job training over two weeks.
During this time, they learn about the culinary arts such as kitchen duties, basic food preparation and service.
Short-term training may be a great introduction to the workplace and perhaps the experience needed to boost self-esteem and develop more confidence.
Each applicant is matched with training positions within his or her physical and developmental capabilities.
The Miami program started last spring at the Hyatt Regency Miami, and already one of the participants has been hired by the hotel. Enrollment is limited to four students for each class, which begins every two weeks. Due to small classes, there is usually a waiting list for enrollment. Applicants must be 18 and drug-free.
Why is this program relevant? The satisfaction of helping others should suffice. However, the realities of today's workforce indicate a more pressing reason. U.S. employers will face a shortage of 10 million workers by 2010, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
On the other hand, it is estimated that there are more than 2.2 million Floridians with disabilities.
According to the statistics, people with disabilities represent America's largest minority group but only 32 percent of Americans with disabilities aged 18-64 are employed. Therefore, hiring people with disabilities can also help employers tap an enormous market niche.
Janet Perales is the community relations manager for Jobing.com, a local employment website.
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