While the unemployment rate has been dropping nationally, it remains much higher for people with disabilities. One restaurant in Leawood is doing its part to change that.
At Cactus Grill, two of the hosts have Down syndrome.
"I think they bring something to the table that not necessarily other employees do," said Cactus Grill General Manager Calais Sullivan. "They're very sociable and very nice people. And they're super friendly at the front door."
One of the hosts, Jack Murphy, has worked at the restaurant off and on for 10 years.
"When the doors are open and people walk in, they love talking to me," said Murphy.
Work for those with Down syndrome can be hard to find. According to the Department of Labor, the unemployment rate for people with disabilities is 10.3 percent, nearly 6 percent higher than for those without disabilities.
"It's kind of difficult to find a job," said Murphy.
The restaurant believes other businesses should consider hiring the disabled.
"I think we feel as if, one, everyone deserves an opportunity," said Sullivan. "You should consider maybe where you could place them in your business. Probably not every business is conducive to it, but there's a lot of things that Jack can do."
Murphy makes the most of his opportunity - a job he can't imagine living without.
"My heart would be broken. My dreams shattered," said Murphy.
The Down Syndrome Guild of Greater Kansas City helps people with Down Syndrome find work. Click here for more information.
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Justin Wilfon can be reached at justin.wilfon@kshb.com.
