What does PWTD mean in DISABILITY

Targeted disabilities usually include physical or mental impairments that limit one or more major life activities such as walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, learning, working and performing manual tasks. These disabilities may include some forms of autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, traumatic brain injury (TBI), deaf/blindness and developmental delays.

To qualify as a Person With Targeted Disabilities (PWTD), the individual must be determined by an appropriate professional to have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. The individual must also be in need of special services or accommodations in order to function independently in daily activities such as work, education and community living.

Yes. People With Targeted Disabilities are protected under several federal laws including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. These laws prohibit discrimination against PWTD in employment decisions and guarantee that PWTD have access to public programs and activities such as healthcare coverage, educational opportunities and transportation services.

There are many ways to advocate for people with targeted disabilities depending on the types of issues they are facing. One way is to contact your local legislators to ensure they understand the specific needs faced by those with targeted disabilities in your community. Additionally you can participate in awareness campaigns or join support groups dedicated to empowering people with targeted disabilities on both a local and national scale.