QWE Practice Guideline: 122 – Use a business development approach that balances revenue, job creation, and pay potential

Target group: Any organization that needs to switch from operating sheltered employment programs to operating competitive integrated employment programs.

Practice Summary

The Institute for Community Inclusion has developed a list of 10 elements focused on organizational transformation, so organizations can initiate their shift from sheltered and segregated employment programs to competitive integrated employment programs.

Practice Implementation

• The roadmap containing the 10 elements can be obtained here. Each element includes provider feedback that was gathered through case studies conducted with providers that have completed the transformation process
• The following offers readers an overview of each element
  • Element 1 – Clear and consistent goals aligned with the company mission. Goals should also be measurable and flexible to the needs of staff.
  • Element 2 – An agency culture that shows it values inclusion both from an internal and external standpoint.
  • Element 3 – Person-centered job placement that is conducted in a proactive manner and follows deliberate employment goals
  • Element 4 – A strong internal and external communications plan that offers clear expectations and engages stakeholders.
  • Element 5 – Reallocated and restructured use of fiscal, material, and staff resources.
  • Element 6 – Ongoing professional development opportunities for staff to increase their skills and contribute their ideas.
  • Element 7 – Customer focus and engagement with both individuals with disabilities and those who support them, especially family members
  • Element 8 – Performance measurement, quality assurance, and program oversight that shows the impact of your efforts and allows for informed decision making.
  • Element 9 – Holistic approach for the development of all stakeholders and the organization. Consider internal and external forces.
  • Element 10 – Multiple and diverse community partnerships focused on increasing funding options, job opportunities, and community resources.
• Additional elements to consider include
  • A paradigm shift at all levels of the organization relevant to the organizations mission, vision, and goals
  • Innovative and creative staff development
  • Internal and external communication adjustments
  • Performance measurement changes
  • A culture of inclusion, learning, and continues quality improvement

Outcomes

• Utilizing this roadmap can lead to an increase in community job placements and community partnerships that will drive a host of additional benefits in funding streams and resources.

NPA: Institute for Community Inclusion
Location: Boston, MA
Date Submitted: 2022
Website: https://www.communityinclusion.org/

Resources: Quality Work Environment Workbook