Employment Disability Resources Second Annual Mentoring Day

Employment Disability Resources announces its second annual Mentoring Day, taking place on Wednesday, August 21 with DakotAbilities. Mentoring Day pairs local businesses with people with disabilities who have expressed interest in learning new skills and possible job opportunities available for a morning of job shadowing. Job shadowing allows people with  disabilities to find opportunities that align with their interests and abilities. For the employers, the event introduces them to potential employees they may not have otherwise had an opportunity to meet.

Participating businesses include PetSmart, Nyberg’s ACE Hardware, Great Plains Zoo, Avera Health, Schulte Subaru, and Serendipity Studio.

“Employment Disability Resources strives to build confidence in job seekers with disabilities by giving them the opportunity to job shadow with professionals and learn more about the skills and abilities they possess. We hope the businesses that host the mentees will see these talented, qualified individuals as potential employees and make a commitment to hiring more employees with disabilities,” says Vicki Stewart, the executive director at Employment Disability Resources.

“Teaming up with Vicki at Employment Disability Resources expands our current employer relationships, and it’s wonderful for the people we support to have more options and unique opportunities, especially as Sioux Falls continues to grow. This is a win/win as we help adults with disabilities discover their potential while educating our community about how they can be
assets to their business, especially as Sioux Falls continues to experience low unemployment rates,” adds Nathan Stallinga, executive director of DakotAbilities. 

After the morning mentoring sessions, mentors, mentees, and vocational rehabilitation counselors will gather at DakotAbilities for lunch to share their experiences and provide feedback.