Employment Programs

What are some of the ways states are explaining work incentives to consumers? North Dakota created a two page document with concise explanations of each program, along with applicable resources and contact information. Topics include the Ticket to Work Program, Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS), and Medicare While Working–Section 1619(b). This easy-to-use reference could be helpful for other MIG states looking for simple and effective ways to disseminate information about their programs.

How can employers communicate effectively with people who have a disability? North Dakota's MIG program sees communication as an important part of helping facilitate the employment and retention of people with disabilities. They created a manual outlining ten communication tips, disability specific tips, people first language, and workplace strategies. A sample of this manual is attached and could also be useful as a template for other MIG states.

How are states implementing proposed transition pilot projects? Ohio created application materials for school districts interested in becoming one of two Regional Transition Pilot Projects. These projects would participate in developing and implementing an inter-agency transition planning and support project for transition-age youth with disabilities. A sample of the application materials are attached and could be a helpful guide to other states instituting pilot projects.

Do you need personal assistance services at your workplace? Personal assistance services can be a big incentive for people with disabilities who want to work, and for those whose employers do not supply their own. South Dakota created the attached brochure explaining eligibility and services to consumers. This sample could be useful to MIG grantees interested in personal assistance services.

How is South Dakota getting the facts out to employers about hiring people with disabilities? One way is through an informational fact listing "Facts for Employers," "Tax Incentives for Employers" and "Resources for Employers". A sample is attached below and could serve as a template for other MIG grantees. 

How are states getting the facts out to consumers about their MIG program? South Dakota is providing readers with information about SSA Work Incentives, Taxes, Medicaid Buy In, Self Employment, Asset Development, Looking for a Job, Knowing Your Rights, and the Ticket To Work Program through fact sheets that outline the program and resources. Samples are attached and could serve as a guide to other MIG grantees.

How is Pennsylvania marketing its MIG program called "Works for Me"? In October 2009, the Works For Me website went live, as did their billboards, TV ads and a direct mail campaign. Attached is a link to the website for this program which offers an audio version of each web page, sample newsletters, brochure, and billboard artwork. These samples could be useful to other states starting a MIG program of their own and/or interested in creating cohesive marketing campaigns.

The Sherlock Plan is the name of Rhode Island’s MIG program. It allows qualified working people with disabilities to earn more income without the risk of losing vital health care coverage. To inform consumers about the program, they have provided a plan overview, fact sheets in Spanish and English, and more information on their "Rhodes to Independence" website. Samples of these documents and a link to the site are available.

Providing employers with the resources to make hiring and retaining employees with disabilities a more common practice is one approach Utah is taking to ensure more successful programs. The attached presentation to employers was given at a semi-annual Employer Workshop, to provide information and support to employers about hiring and retaining employees with disabilities. It includes information, success stories and resources. It is an approach that could be useful to other MIG states.

The Maryland Department of Disabilities hosted an intensive workshop focused on employment resources and services, and job-seeking sessions about cover letters, resumes, job applications, interviewing and benefits counseling. At this workshop they conducted a survey of participants in order to rate the event and assess improvements. A sample of the questions and results are attached, which could serve as a template for other states looking into assessing their employment programs and events.