Employment Services

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Work can have many benefits.

For most of us, work is part of our identity. When we feel good about having a job, we often see ourselves in a more positive way. Work provides structure and routines. Job income gives us more choices about what to buy, where to live, and gives us a chance to build savings.

When researchers have asked individuals with disabilities if they want to work, nearly 7 out of every 10 said they would like to have a job. Research shows 6 out of every 10 individuals with disabilities can work at a job in the community if they are provided with the right types of services and supports.

What is supported employment?

Supported employment programs help people find competitive jobs, (that is, jobs that pay at least minimum wage that any person can apply for) that are based on the person’s preferences and abilities.

The evidence shows that even people with the most severe disabilities can work. In supported employment, job selection is tailored to individuals. Supported employment provides all individuals with disabilities a chance to succeed at employment. For some people, the opportunity to work a few hours a week is a lifelong dream.

The following components are predictive of better employment outcomes:

  • focus on competitive employment
  • rapid job searches
  • jobs tailored to individuals
  • time-unlimited follow-along supports

Supported employment is a service that assists an individual to attain, learn and keep a paid job/career in an integrated work setting where most of the co-workers are individuals without disabilities. Paid work may be full time or part time.  Supported employment is sometimes called “Customized Employment” when a job is individually negotiated and developed. It is based on an individualized determination of the strengths, needs and interests of the person with a disability and also is designed to meet the specific needs of the employer. Customized employment assumes accommodations and supports will be identified to allow the individual to perform the functions of a job.

Employment Specialists can assist an individual with:

  • Pre-hire work readiness - assisting with applications, resumes, and interviewing skills
  • Job exploration - discovering their work interests and abilities
  • Job development - finding a job matching those interests
  • Job coaching - helping learn the skills of a particular job
  • Job support - helping the worker and employer with issues of job performance in a way that helps assure on-going success at the job site.

Aside from the internal and cultural rewards, see first-hand how hiring a person can financially benefit your company through the Hire Gauge tool.