NATIONAL DISABILITY RIGHTS NETWORK

The National Disability Rights Network (NDRN) is a national organization focused on advocating for the rights of people with disabilities. NDRN’s mission is to protect and advance the rights of individuals with disabilities, with an emphasis on promoting their inclusion and ensuring equal access to services, education, employment, and other aspects of society. NDRN operates through a network of Protection and Advocacy (P&A) agencies in every state and U.S. territory, providing legal and advocacy services to support individuals with disabilities. The organization also engages in policy work, public education, and litigation to uphold the rights of people with disabilities and to bring about positive change in disability-related policies and practices.

ACCESSIBILITY LAWS: SECTION 504, IDEA, AND ADA

Section 504, part of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, is a U.S. federal law that prohibits discrimination based on disability. It ensures that individuals with disabilities have equal access to programs, services, and activities receiving federal financial assistance, such as education. Under Section 504, qualified individuals with disabilities cannot be excluded, denied benefits, or subjected to discrimination solely due to their disability. While commonly applied in the educational context, it extends to various entities that receive federal funding, ensuring equitable access and accommodations for people with disabilities in a wide range of settings.

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal U.S. law that governs special education services for children with disabilities. Enacted to ensure that students with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education, IDEA mandates the provision of individualized education plans (IEPs) tailored to each child’s unique needs, with services and accommodations designed to help them access and make progress in the general education curriculum. IDEA guarantees parental involvement in the IEP process, requires the education of students with disabilities in the least restrictive environment, and establishes due process rights to resolve disputes between families and schools regarding special education services. This law seeks to promote educational equity and support the educational outcomes of students with disabilities from birth to age 21.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal U.S. law enacted in 1990 that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities and ensures their equal access to employment, public accommodations, transportation, and government services. The ADA mandates that employers provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in the workplace, and it requires public places and services to be accessible to people with disabilities, including wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms. The law aims to promote inclusion, independence, and equal opportunities for people with disabilities, and it has significantly impacted civil rights and accessibility standards in the United States.

DISABILITY RIGHTS NEW JERSEY (DRNJ)

Disability Rights New Jersey (DRNJ) is a New Jersey-based organization that advocates for the rights and protections of individuals with disabilities in the state. DRNJ works to ensure that people with disabilities have equal access to services, education, and opportunities. The organization provides legal assistance, advocacy, and support, addressing issues such as disability discrimination, accessibility, and the protection of individual rights. Through its efforts, DRNJ aims to empower people with disabilities to lead more inclusive, independent lives and to protect their rights within the state of New Jersey.

RESUME BUILDER

A comprehensive guide offering insights and tips tailored to assist individuals with disabilities in crafting a compelling resume that showcases their skills and contributions to potential employers. It also covers crucial topics like legal protections, workplace fairness, and addressing discrimination and harassment, ensuring an equitable opportunity to pursue their career objectives.