Jones will focus on how the Americans with Disabilities Act applies to hiring, including the interviewing process, and when employers are responsible for providing reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities.

“I think it's a civil rights issue,” she said.

She said oftentimes, an employer won't hire someone with disabilities because they are afraid the cost of accommodations will be too much. Jones said it isn't as costly as many think.

“They're missing out on a large, qualified employee pool,” Jones said.

She said if an employee becomes disabled while working, it is often an employer's first experience with a disabled employee.

Jones will also discuss the tax benefits and assistance available for employers needing to provide accommodations for disabled employees.

Jones said there is a lot of information missed by employers about reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

According to the ADA, the definition of reasonable accommodation is any change or adjustment to a job, the work environment, or the way things usually are done that would allow application of a job, to perform job functions or enjoy equal access to available benefits.

Some of the most common types of accommodations are physical changes, such as installing ramps or modifying workspace or restroom; sign language interpreters or readers; and training or other written materials in an accessible format.

The Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law in 1990. It is a federal civil rights law designed to prevent discrimination and enable individuals with disabilities to participate fully in all aspects of society. The ADA protects from discrimination in all employment practices, including job application, hiring, firing, training, pay, promotion, benefits and leave of absence.

Jones has served as the Great Lakes ADA Technology Center's director for more than 14 years. She served as founding director for the independent living center in the Chicago area.

She also serves as a key resource regarding the interplay of the ADA with other legislation and has worked closely with local and state officials to harmonize local laws related to civil rights and architectural accessibility with the ADA.

The luncheon is open to employers, people with disabilities and other interested parties. It is sponsored by the Little Victories committee and funded by the Whitley County Community Foundation, making it free for all in attendance.

“We want to encourage employment for people with disabilities,” Passages director Kay Fleck stated as the reason for Jones' presentation.

Fleck said she hopes anyone who hires others will attend the luncheon.

Reservations can be made by calling Sonya Rubrake at 244-7688, ext. 112. The deadline to reserve a spot is Friday.

By Carrie Stuart
http://www.thepostandmail.com/articles/2006/02/28/news/news/news04.txt