Frequently Asked Questions

The mission of increasing disability employment in Chicago cannot be done alone. We partner with agencies and community-based organizations throughout our 77 Chicago neighborhoods to ensure all people with disabilities have access to the resources and supports needed to achieve their career goals, including priority neighborhoods identified on the South and West sides of Chicago.  ​
MOPD’s Career Center partners with agencies by:​
  • Working with youth with disabilities to provide career readiness activities and employment assistance
  • Hosting Community Partner Meetings to provide updates and share resources​
  • Hosting and collaborating on accessible career events ​
  • Working with community-based organizations and residents to ensure equitable and accessible resources​
  • Working with the Department of Family Support Services to identify and make appropriate referrals ​
If you are interested in learning more about partnering with MOPD, please email MOPDCareerCenter@cityofchicago.org a Career Center staff member will follow up with you within 1-2 business days. 

No, all of our services are free.

You need to be a city of Chicago resident to receive services from MOPD.  However, we can connect you to resources in your area.​

Please call (312) 746- 5773 and use prompt #3.  You can also email us at MOPDCareerCenter@cityofchicago.org​

Please bring a resume and cover letter if you have one.  You can also email us those documents ahead of time.​

Yes, we will still work with you even if you are getting services at another organization.​

Yes, we will help you to create a resume. ​

Every job seeker’s experience is different, and the amount of time will be different for everyone.​

Job coaches work with you and your employer at the jobsite to identify your new roles and responsibilities, making sure that they are broken down into manageable steps so that you can be successful. 

Unfortunately, we are unable to support job seekers at this level. If you are interested in a job coach, speak to your Career Counselor about applying to work with Department of Rehabilitation Services. 

No, however we can help you connect with someone who can.  

We do not need your Ticket to Work voucher to provide services. If you would like to assign your ticket to an accepting agency, we can help you connect with an agency that uses Ticket to Work vouchers.  

If you are actively seeking employment, we encourage you to meet with your Career Counselor every 1-3 weeks.  

The Central West Community Center features an installation of murals titled "We Are Proud" by Chicago artist Sam Kirk and featuring words from Lily Diego-Johnson. Read more about the murals here.