About Us

ACSED, originally named Disabled in State Service (DISS), was formed in 1976. We were incorporated as a California non-profit public benefit corporation in 1982. Our organization has been granted 501(c)(3) tax exempt status by the IRS and the Franchise Tax Board. We are also approved by CalHR as a bona fide employee organization to speak and act on disability employment issues in state service.

Since ACSED’s Formation

ACSED has provided value towards much needed change and education related to PWDs in State service. We have:

  • Participated in the CalHR/SPB Joint Project to develop a comprehensive set of recommendations for improving the hiring and retention of employees with disabilities in state government.
  • Coordinated with the Department of Rehabilitation in conducting job fairs and trainings regarding how to apply for State service positions.
  • Sponsored state legislation requiring departments to have Disability Advisory Committees (DACs).
  • Sponsored state legislation to codify the ability to hire from a “LEAP Only” List.
  • Sponsored state legislation to improve accountability on disability employment in state government.
  • Successfully advocated for creation of the Statewide Disability Advisory Council (SDAC).
  • Promoted an increase in the disability employment representation rate.

Ongoing Action and Engagement

ACSED meets throughout the year with State departmental leadership and Legislators in addressing systemic issues that limit equity in hiring, promotion, retention, and fair treatment of PWDs in state service. Some of our efforts are summarized below.
 

  • State Disability Advisory Council (SDAC) and Disability Advisory Committee (DAC) Engagement
    • We actively participate in SDAC and departmental DAC meetings.
    • Our goal is to inform these entities about the crucial role we can play in overcoming barriers.
  • Advocacy with State Agencies
    • We advocate to CalHR, State Personnel Board (SPB), and other entities for the development of policies that enhance inclusion and accessibility for disabled employees.
  • Mentoring and Consultation
    • We mentor and consult with SDAC and individual department DACs to address ongoing issues impacting persons with disabilities employed by the state of California.
    • Our focus is addressing ongoing systemic issues related to disability inclusion.
  • Training
    • ACSED collaborates with the Asian Pacific State Employees Association (APSEA) to provide and present lunch time seminars, also known as Career Development Program (CDP) workshops, designed to improve and inform the audience about professional development.
    • ACSED provides a periodic Training Symposium for state department employees, job seekers with disabilities, and other interested individuals.
    • ACSED works with other entities, including the Department of Rehabilitation, the state council on Developmental Disabilities and the Department of Developmental Services on disability employment options.
    • Workshops are offered at no cost to ACSED and APSEA members.

    Get Involved!

    Join ACSED and be part of our mission to create a more inclusive workplace. Together, we can make a difference! Visit our Membership page for additional information.