Employment Programs

The purpose of this study is to synthesize data on the impact that the Rehabilitation Act has had on the employment and post secondary education outcomes of eligible youth. It examines how well existing vocational rehabilitation (VR) structures deliver effective transition services. It also looks at the effectiveness of collaboration between VR, education, and other service systems. Finally, 11 recommendations for the U.S. Congress and various relevant federal and state agencies are given.

Disclosing a disability during a job search may be a major cause of anxiety or concern for people with disabilities and their supporters. Guidance is offered here for questions regarding whether, why, and how a disability should be disclosed to a potential employer in such a way that an applicant’s strengths are emphasized.

This report summarizes available research to date regarding the effectiveness of peer support and presents State examples of peer support within three different Medicaid authorities (State Plan, 1915(b), and 1915(c)). State Medicaid Agencies and their partner mental health agencies can find guidance here for efforts to incorporate peer support into Medicaid programs.

Here is an example of alternative funding of assistive technology to support employment. The fund is available through United Cerebral Palsy of Michigan and provides low interest loans for people with disabilities to purchase equipment that enables them to work from home. Examples of items and services that qualify for financing include computers and hardware, office furniture and equipment, home modifications, telecommunications systems, user training and maintenance.

What significance does employment hold for women with disabilities? What is known and unknown about these women? This issue of “Impact” answers these questions with articles by women with disabilities and researchers. Issues covered include self-employment, mentoring, transition planning, disparities across ethnic groups, and career development. Several women with disabilities who are successful artists, scientists, educators and entrepreneurs are profiled.

This presentation on Medicaid Infrastructure Grants (MIG) presents information regarding what ADRCs need to know about work incentive programs for individuals with disabilities. The presentation was part of the ADRC TA program and was delivered in November 2008. Additionally, a link is included to an informational website for the Ticket to Work Incentives Improvement Act.

The Work Incentives Planning and Assistance Projects or WIPAs were funded by 104 new grants awarded throughout the U.S. and the U.S. territories in 2006 to this SSA grantee program. These grants were created to assist SSA disability beneficiaries by providing information about work incentives, benefits planning, and making good choices about work. This website is a resource for consumers, providers and employment and vocational networks.

The U.S. Department of Labor has joined with the U.S. Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs to launch a Web-based directory to help wounded warriors identify resources available to assist them in transitioning back to civilian life. The National Resource Directory encompasses more than 10,000 services and resources, including information on benefits and compensation, education, training and employment, family ad caregiver support, health, housing and transportation, service and resources.

How can you shape programs and direct funds to use the power of self-direction in employment programs? This resource presents two examples of states that have achieved this. It also discusses characteristics of and barriers to facilitating consumer direction in employment.

How can participants in consumer-directed programs connect with and hire care workers? In Arkansas, they can consult this web-based directory that is free for consumers and applicants. Worker names, availability, expected wages, services provided, and contact information are all provided.