Oct 8, 2014 By David Singer 1 min read

The national unemployment average for people with disabilities is 13.3 percent, almost double the average for the general population. In Pittsburgh, the Allegheny Conference on Community Development estimates there are half a million people with disabilities. Pittsburgh and national leaders are trying to reduce the disparity in disabled employment by hosting a three-day Disability Employment Summit.

Oct. 14 is the first day of public events hosted by the Allegheny Conference group and the American Association for People With Disabilities as the groups convene for a morning symposium at Heinz Field inside the Hyundai Club West Lounge to educate employers on new regulations and resources. Registration is $50 for non-sponsors and those not in education administration or nonprofits.

Starting at 1 p.m., the free Disability Career Summit will feature panels on professions such as banking, finance, law, energy, logistics and manufacturing, as well as hospitality, consumer and education industries.

On Oct. 15, high school students throughout the region will participate in Disability Mentoring Day at area companies.

Registration is available online at www.alleghenyconference.org.