Hetlinger Helps Disabled Emporians Find Work

Hetlinger Developmental Services Helps Emporians With Disabilities Find Meaningful Work

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) can find a sense of community and work opportunities through Hetlinger Developmental Services. The organization offers employment support and day services to help people who would otherwise have difficulty finding a job.

“We know that people thrive when they are involved in the local community, but also that communities thrive when they welcome everyone,” says Jill Burton, Executive Director at Hetlinger Developmental Services. “We hear from the companies we partner with that the workplace is more joyful because of their new additions to staff.”

Hetlinger plays an important role in Kansas' history. Over the years, it has evolved to support everyone with disabilities, not just people with IDDs. Learn more about this organization and why it makes Emporia a better place to live. 

Hetlinger Has Offered Regional Support to Families Since 1961

Hetlinger is the oldest organization in Kansas to serve people with disabilities. It was founded in 1961 by a group of parents who wanted to support their kids with disabilities at a time when they weren’t allowed in public schools. As education reform made schools accessible and inclusive, Hetlinger's mission evolved. It started catering to people with IDDs as they transitioned out of the school system and into adulthood.

Today, Hetlinger’s mission is to assist people with disabilities to increase their independence, integration, and inclusion by offering career services and support. Hetlinger supports people in Lyon, Chase, Morris, and Wabaunsee Counties. It works with local employers to find job placement, training, and education opportunities based on the interests of the people it helps.

“There are many benefits to employers who work with us,” says Burton. “Workplaces that are more inclusive tend to be happier. People like being part of good things. There is so much joy in our building that gets carried through to the community when the people we help join the workforce.”

Emporia Residents Can Meet People With Disabilities Around Town

Working with Hetlinger is a win-win for businesses and people with disabilities. Burton highlights how many people with IDDs have longevity in their jobs and want to stay with their employers. They are also dedicated to the work and have attention to detail, which makes them great employees.

“Rural communities are looking for a workforce, and at the very same time, there is a group of people willing to work,” she says. “The employers we work with often say this is a great fit.”

The people Hetlinger works with must complete the same job training and certification as any other employee to step into the role. Burton shares the story of one woman who dreamed of working with children. She completed the state-level education and training processes and is now qualified to work at a daycare.

“Everyone said working with kids was a nice dream for her, but no one took steps to figure out how she could make it happen,” says Burton. “Hetlinger offers more than job placements. We also help people map out a path toward their future careers.”  

Hetlinger already has several partnerships around town. The people they help work at the recently opened Champions Landing and run the concessions stands at the David Traylor Zoo.

People with disabilities can also work at the Hetlinger Center. They can learn about horticulture in the greenhouse, develop cooking skills in the kitchen, and assemble kits for the Hopkins Manufacturing Corporation, among other firms. Hetlinger also partners with the Emporia Arts Council to schedule art and plant sales created and grown by the people they serve. 

Anyone With a Disability Can Work With Hetlinger

While Hetlinger was founded to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, anyone with a disability can use its services. This includes people with physical disabilities or mental disabilities, like anxiety.

“We are happy to connect anyone with a disability with support for job development,” says Burton. “We can help people draft resumes, offer job interview coaching, and set people up with job tryouts.”

Burton says they aim to wean people off Hetlinger’s resources until they reach a point where they work independently. People can always return to Hetlinger, but the organization wants to foster autonomy and confidence in Emporians with disabilities.

Hetlinger also recently expanded its employment program to support teens ages 14-21 for pre-employment services.

“Workforce development spans the entire population, including those who need support,” says Burton. “In all aspects of life, we encourage people to give somebody a chance. Whether it’s employment or extending friendship, it only colors our world.” 

Hetlinger is One of Many Organizations Supporting Emporians

Emporia is strong because of the countless organizations that work together to help residents. From Emporia Spanish Speakers creating community across languages to KANSASWORKS Southeast sharing resources with job seekers, Lyon County is filled with helpers who want to help this region thrive.

See for yourself why so many people are passionate about Emporia and love helping their neighbors. Learn more about life in this community and why people move here.