Frequently Asked Questions

The shared 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 areas that the Mayor has identified on the South and West sides of Chicago.  ​

MOPD’s Career Center partners with agencies by:​

  • Working with City Colleges of Chicago students with disabilities to provide career readiness activities and job placement. Learn more here (link)​
  • 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 complete the MOPD Community Partner Form or email MOPDCareerCenter@cityofchicago.org a MOPD Career Placement Counselor 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 Coaching Definition: 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. 

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. 

SSI (Supplemental Security Income) provides cash benefits for people who are disabled, with little or no work history, who have low-income and resources. SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance)provides cash benefits for people who are disabled that have a work history and paid into the Social Security (FICA) tax system. SSDI pays a monthly benefit to people who are unable to work for a year or more because of a disability. To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, you must: a) have worked in jobs covered by Social Security; and b) have a medical condition that meets Social Security's eligibility requirements. Here is the link to see how you qualify Social Security qualifications.

MOPD can assist you in completing an online application with the State of Illinois's Benefit Access Program. This allows persons with disabilities, such as a fee discount on license plates and free rides on fixed-route transits. Eligibility is determined by age, disability, residency and income.

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.