Education, accommodations, job preperation, training, and career exploration
Harford Community College offers degree and certificate programs, workforce training, and community education. For a student with a disability, its accessibility services office works with the student to determine reasonable accommodations for eligible courses and programs. Depending on the individual situation, accommodations may include testing arrangements, accessible course materials, assistive technology, or other adjustments that provide access to learning.
How to start: Contact Accessibility Services early, preferably before a course begins, to discuss your needs and the college’s documentation and request process. Accommodations are arranged through the college; a high school IEP or 504 plan does not automatically carry over. Ask about the particular class or training program you want, since program requirements and available supports may differ.
Some Maryland residents receiving qualifying disability benefits may be eligible for a tuition waiver under the college’s rules. Review the current waiver instructions, deadlines, FAFSA requirements, and any fees that may still apply before enrolling.
Helpful links: Accessibility Services · Request accommodations · Workforce and career programs · Community education · Tuition waivers
Accessibility Services: 443-412-2402 or accessibility@harford.edu.
DORS helps eligible Marylanders with disabilities prepare for, find, and keep employment. Services are planned around a person’s work goal and may include career counseling, assessments, training, assistive technology, education-related support, and help with a job search or workplace needs. DORS can be useful whether someone is entering the workforce for the first time, changing careers, or trying to remain employed.
How to start: Submit a request for services. A DORS staff member will discuss your disability, employment goals, and eligibility, then work with you on the next steps if you qualify. You can involve a family member or other support person in the conversation if you wish. The exact services available depend on your individual plan.
Helpful links: DORS services for consumers · Request DORS services.
Susquehanna Workforce Network serves job seekers in Harford and Cecil counties. Its workforce centers offer help with job searches, résumés, interview preparation, career exploration, and information about training and local employers. It is a general workforce resource that adults with disabilities can use alongside disability-specific employment supports such as DORS.
How to start: Explore the job seeker services and contact the Harford County workforce center. Tell staff what type of work you want and ask about available appointments, training options, and accessibility needs.
Helpful links: Job seeker services · Workforce center locations
Harford County center: 2129 Pulaski Highway, Suite 101, Havre de Grace, MD 21078; 410-272-5400.
The Seth Lark Foundation helps young people explore skilled trades through mentorship and hands-on opportunities. Its materials describe pathways involving trades such as carpentry, plumbing, and welding, including an internship opportunity. It may be useful for someone approaching adulthood who learns best by doing and wants to explore a trade or an alternative to a traditional college path.
Check the fit first: This is a youth and transition-age opportunity, rather than a general adult disability service. Contact the foundation to ask about current age requirements, openings, location, accessibility, and the level of support an individual would need to participate.
Helpful links: Seth Lark Foundation · About the foundation · Become an intern
Contact: michele@sethlarkfoundation.org.