The Business Services Program of the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) is dedicated to partnering with Mississippi businesses and industries to expand their workforce with highly skilled, motivated employees of diverse abilities. Our Business Relations Specialists work directly with employers to help them source qualified talent and build inclusive workplaces that benefit both employers and employees.
Our Services for Employers
- Pre-Screening and Recruitment: Our Business Relations Specialists conduct a thorough screening of candidates to match them with your business needs, ensuring that you have access to qualified, motivated talent. We also offer support in training and onboarding to help ensure a smooth transition for employees and employers alike.
- ADA and Disability Awareness Training: We deliver comprehensive training sessions for employers and staff, focusing on topics like disability awareness, workplace accessibility, and best practices under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Training programs include:
- Creating an Accessible and Welcoming Workplace
- Practical Guidance on Reasonable Accommodations
- Utilizing the Workplace Accommodation Toolkit
- Reasonable Accommodations: To support employees with disabilities in performing essential job functions, we offer assessments and guidance on assistive technologies, worksite modifications, and other accommodations. Our team can help you adapt your workplace to be accessible and functional for all employees.
- Internships and Career Exploration: We offer a variety of programs to assist individuals with disabilities in exploring potential careers before committing. These options include internships, job shadowing, community-based training, and customized hiring programs that serve both the needs of businesses and the career goals of candidates.
Financial Incentives and Tax Credits
The federal government offers various incentives for businesses that hire and retain employees with disabilities. These include:
- Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC): A federal tax credit for hiring individuals from targeted groups, including people with disabilities.
- Barrier Removal Tax Deduction: A deduction for businesses making facilities or vehicles more accessible.
- Disabled Access Tax Credit: A tax credit for small businesses making accessibility improvements
Why Partner with OVR Business Services?
Employing individuals diverse abilities allows your business to build a skilled, dependable workforce, reduce turnover, and foster a reputation as an inclusive employer. By partnering with the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, you’ll not only fill open positions but also make a meaningful contribution to your community by promoting diversity and inclusion.
Myths and Facts about Workplace Accommodations
Myth: Accommodations are too costly.
- Fact: Most accommodations are free or cost less than $500. Our team provides expert advice on effective, affordable solutions.
Myth: Employees with disabilities require extensive training.
- Fact: Our candidates are well-prepared for the job or can receive On-the-Job Training.
Myth: Accommodations decrease employee satisfaction.
- Fact: Companies that provide accommodations often see increased overall productivity.
Myth: There are no benefits to hiring people with disabilities.
- Fact: Employees with disabilities often have better job retention and fewer absences. Additionally, employers may qualify for tax incentives.
Myth: Hiring employees with disabilities could lead to losing customers.
- Fact: Inclusive hiring often broadens customer reach and enhances brand loyalty.
Contact Business Services
To learn more about how we can support your business or to post a job opening with the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services, please complete our online forms. Our team is ready to assist you in achieving your workforce goals and connecting you with a talent pool you can rely on.
Please complete this form to tell us more about your business and how we can better serve your employment needs.
Please complete this form to post your job openings with the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services. Your current opening will be posted on our internal website and allow our counselors to share the opening with the Mississippians with disabilities we serve.
For more information please contact:
Business Services Program
businessinfo@mdrs.ms.gov
800.443.1000