The Power of Purpose: Why Employment Matters for Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

For many of us, having a job is about more than just earning a paycheck—it’s a source of purpose, identity, and connection. For adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), employment offers all of that and more. Yet nationally, fewer than one in four adults with IDD are employed, despite their abilities and eagerness to contribute. It’s time to reframe the conversation—not around limitations, but around opportunity.

Employment Builds Confidence and Independence

One of the most transformative effects of employment is the boost in self-esteem and independence it brings. When individuals with IDD participate in meaningful work, they often experience:

• Greater self-confidence: Completing tasks, meeting goals, and contributing to a team instills a sense of pride.

• Improved decision-making: Regular routines and responsibilities encourage personal growth and autonomy.

• Financial empowerment: Earning a wage, even part-time, allows individuals to make choices, save money, and participate more fully in their communities.

  
  

Work Enhances Social Connections

Jobs create natural opportunities to build friendships and social skills. Whether it’s chatting in the break room, collaborating on tasks, or celebrating workplace milestones, employment helps adults with IDD:

• Feel a sense of belonging

• Practice communication and teamwork

• Reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness

These everyday interactions foster a greater sense of inclusion and community participation.

Employment Supports Health and Wellbeing

Staying active and engaged through work is good for the body and the mind. Studies have shown that employed adults with disabilities often report:

• Improved mental health

• Higher levels of daily engagement

• Better overall quality of life

Having a reason to get up in the morning—and a place where you are needed—supports routine, physical activity, and emotional stability.

Jobs Help Build Skills for Life

From learning how to clock in to problem-solving on the job, employment provides real-life lessons that go beyond the classroom. People with IDD develop:

• Technical and vocational skills

• Time management and reliability

• Adaptability and resilience

These skills often translate into more independence at home and in the community.

Employment Strengthens Communities

When businesses include employees with IDD, everyone benefits. Research shows that inclusive workplaces:

• Have higher employee morale

• Experience lower turnover rates

• Earn customer loyalty through visible commitments to equity and diversity

Hiring adults with IDD isn’t just good practice—it’s smart business.

Moving Forward

Supporting employment for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities is not just a matter of equity—it’s a matter of potential. Every person deserves the dignity of meaningful work, and communities thrive when everyone has the chance to contribute.

Programs like BrightSteps are paving the way—offering job readiness training, life skills, and pathways to employment that empower individuals with IDD to live with greater purpose, pride, and independence.

Because when we invest in inclusive employment, we all rise.