American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD)
The largest national disability rights organization in the U.S., advocating for equal opportunity, economic self-sufficiency, and independent living.
In plain terms: This national disability rights organization promotes civil rights and economic independence for people with disabilities. You can explore career development programs, find internships and fellowships, or connect with mentoring and scholarship opportunities.
Coach's summary
Also runs paid internship and leadership programs worth applying to.
AAPD provides national advocacy, career development programs, internships, and mentorship to increase the economic and political power of people with disabilities. Visit to explore paid fellowships, student scholarships, and employment resources.
Key programs
AAPD Internship Programs
Offers Summer and Fall internships alongside the Bobby Silverstein Fellowship to help people with disabilities build career experience and leadership skills.
Open program pageDisability Mentoring Day (DMD)
A mentorship initiative supporting career development and learning connections for people with disabilities.
Open program pageFannie Lou Hamer Leadership Program
A leadership development cohort focused on advocacy and civic engagement for disability community leaders.
Open program pagePaul G. Hearne Emerging Leaders Award
An awards program recognizing up-and-coming leaders with disabilities who are advancing equal opportunity and civil rights.
Open program pageTony Coelho Media Scholarship
A scholarship opportunity for disabled students interested in media and communications fields.
Open program pageREV UP Movement Grants and Voting Campaign
An initiative providing grants and engagement tools to advance the political power and voting rights of disabled Americans.
Open program page
What to look for
- Check the Internship Programs page for Summer and Fall application cycles and fellowship openings.
- Explore the Disability Mentoring Day program for career guidance and professional connections.
- Review policy explainers and plain-language resources for guidance on disability employment and rights.
Relevant links
Similar organizations
Recommended next
Hand-picked from the hub based on what American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) covers.
Year Up
This free program provides job training and internships for young adults. You can learn practical workplace skills, gain real-world experience, and connect directly with employers to start a career.
Why this: Covers community resources and entry level too
Goodwill Career & Job Training Services
Free career centers and job training nationwide, serving people re-entering the workforce, youth, people with disabilities, and returning citizens at no cost to eligible participants.
Why this: Covers accessibility and community resources too
Path Forward: Paid Return-to-Work Internships
This nonprofit helps people restart their careers after taking time off for caregiving. You can search a directory of paid return-to-work internships and access guides to help you rejoin the workforce.
Why this: Covers entry level and free too
Harlem Capital
Venture firm investing in diverse founders, with public resources and an internship pipeline.
Why this: Covers entry level and free too