Employment First

This strategic planning manual helps states develop a strategic process to increase Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE) for people with disabilities. This manual is designed as a guide for state leadership teams and facilitators working to create a statewide cross-systems Employment First strategic plan. It is intended to help states strategically align their policy and programs to further CIE as the first priority for all individuals with disabilities.

This brief discusses the introduction of Employment First policies in seven states and explores each state’s values, mission, and goals around increasing employment opportunities for people with disabilities. It is a useful tool both for states wishing to bolster their Employment First efforts and for those looking to begin developing Employment First policies.

The Office of Disability Employment Policy and the LEAD Center released three Employment First technical briefs for individuals working on the implementation of Employment First in their states, regions, and organizations. Each of the briefs offers different technical guidance on the following topics: Federal policy that supports Employment First systems, federal legal framework that supports competitive employment outcomes, and criteria for performance excellence.