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Access AmeriCorps

FAQ: Hiring a Disability Consultant

1. Can we use a consultant help increase the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in our AmeriCorps programs?

Yes! It is allowable to use the disability funds to pay a consultant or an organization for this purpose.

2. Can we contract out all the funds?

No. The state commission must retain control over the money set aside for accommodations in your budget for the disability funds. That funding cannot be contracted out.

3. What is the first step?

First, spend some time identifying those activities the consultant will do. A clear scope of work, and a strong understanding of the activities you need performed will help you write a strong RFP, and will reduce confusion and misunderstanding later in the process.

4. What are some activities that a consultant can do for the commission?

A consultant can help write the state disability plan, help implement the plan, conduct outreach activities, consult on effective accommodations, or help conduct marketing activities. Depending on your needs and resources, you can contract out many activities or just a few activities.

5. Where do I find disability consultants?

There are a number of ways to seek out disability consultants. One is by using the list of organizations provided by Access AmeriCorps. Many of these organizations will be aware of consultants in your state. Some of those organizations may engage in consultant arrangements and may be interested in consulting with you. Another is to contact your local DBTAC (1-800 949-4232, V/TTY) and ask for referrals. You can also find consultants by issuing an RFP through your state RFP process.

6. What are the minimum qualifications that a consultant should have?

The minimum qualifications will depend on the task the consultant is to do. At a minimum, the individual should have experience in training and effectively designing training curriculum that meets the needs of participants. The consultant should have cross-disability experience, meaning they are knowledgeable in a wide range of disabilities. They should also have extensive training in the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504. There are a wide range of training programs in which a consultant might have received training. Some of these better ones are those sponsored by the Disability Rights and Education Defense Fund (DREDF), the Disability and Business Technical Assistance Centers (DBTACs). A consultant working with you on your disability plan should be familiar with the disability community in your state. They should understand the structure of state-wide disability services, and should have a clear idea of the resources to utilize in implementing the various aspects of the plan.

7. Should I ask for references?

Yes! And you should check them. There is no certification process for becoming a "disability consultant" and the term can mean a variety of things. As in many other businesses, there are people who advertise themselves as consultants who really do not have the skills and knowledge to effectively help you. A reputable consultant will be able to identify their strengths and clearly outline what they can do.

8. How much should a consultant cost?

The fees that a consultant will charge can run from a low of $30 per hour to a high of $300 per hour. In general, both extremes are extreme. Most disability consultants will charge anywhere from $50 to $80 per hour, and will work on a per project basis. Remember too, that you are limited to a maximum of $443 per day.

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