Human Service Policy

1.INTRODUCTION
In the United States, there are many people diagnosed with and affected by varying disabilities – some more severe and debilitating than others. Due to various programs, laws, and policies, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other programs, many funded through the Department of Health and Human Services (DHS), many advances have been made to improve living conditions, vocational training, and independent skill building. While many improvements have been made and a number of programs have been implemented, there are still problems with the availability and accessibility for persons living with disabilities. Through research, policymakers and influential stakeholders are able to gain a valuable understanding
While satisfaction is the main topic of interest, I am also interested in researching the process one goes through to obtain services, the availability of services offered to disabled persons, and any other implications or barriers one may face throughout the process. Through research, policymakers are able to create and implement policies that will directly affect their constituents and district. By writing and implementing policies in the human services field, such as job placement or training, and independent living skill building, there will be an influx in the need for housing, which will in turn benefit the economy and the need for creation of new jobs. Overall, the research surrounding public policies in the human services field will impact policymakers and politicians, and will then hopefully create change, which impacts various areas. Research will be collected through surveys, which will be conducted throughout Allegheny County. An analysis of the survey results will lead to further understanding regarding the quality and satisfaction of services offered, as well as suggestions for which programs or services the respondents would like to see modified or