Service for disabled offers resources online

The Searchable Online Accommodation Resource is now available online to employers seeking to make workplace accommodations for employees with disabilities.

Launched this past summer, SOAR is a Web-based service of the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities' Job Accommodation Network. The program is designed to allow users to explore various accommodation options in the work setting for persons with disabilities.

The program takes the user through a step-by-step process, beginning with the identification of the impairment and the functional limitations of the particular individual needing an accommodation. It then points the user to recommended accommodations, as well as examples of accommodations other employers have made.

If equipment is recommended, the program also provides a list of potential vendors for that equipment.

"SOAR is a great resource for employers and employees who need ideas on what kinds of accommodations may be possible for certain impairments It's a good starting point for understanding impairments and learning about accommodations that have worked for others. Often, employers also learn that accommodations are inexpensive and easy to make," said Tony Coelho, chairman of the president's committee, in the release.

SOAR is still in development and will be updated regularly. Even when fully developed, the program cannot cover every conceivable situation, so Job Accommodation Network consultants are available via phone at 800-526-7234. Soar can be accessed online at www.jan.wvu.edu/soar/.

The President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities is a small federal agency based in Washington, D.C. The committee's mission is to communicate, coordinate and promote public and private efforts to enhance the employment of people with disabilities.