Employment First Initiative
QWE Practice Guideline: 232 – Provide job placement and other services that create opportunities inside and outside of the organization
Target group: Any organization employing and/or supporting individuals with disabilities
Practice Description
A systems-change framework focused on the capability of individuals with disabilities to participate in competitive integrated employment
Resources Needed
Subject matter experts/trainers
- Consultant or staff with knowledge of competitive integrated employment
Equipment
- Computer and internet access
Labor hours
- Time for staff to complete related activities
Implementation Process
Process
- Read and understand the Office of Disability Employment Policy’s Employment First Initiative
- Assess policies and programs related to competitive integrated employment
- Capacity Building
- Provider Transformation
- School-to-Work Transition
- Employer Engagement
- Policy/Funding Alignment
- Determine areas for growth and improvement
- Assess local community for organizations to collaborate and partner with
- Join the Employment First Community of Practice
- Attend Community of Practice Webinars focused on the following topics
- Advancing Competitive Integrated Employment
- Employment Strategies
- Financial Literacy
- Funding and Rate Alignment
- Supporting People with Mental Health Conditions
- Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
- Additional information can be obtained here.
Documentation
- SOPs
- Policies and procedures on use of the initiative and associated activities
- Training
- Ensure staff know how to access resources offered through the initiative
Outcomes/Results
Individuals
- Increased access to community resources
- Improved employment services
Organization
- Increased knowledge of competitive integrated employment
- Increased access to resources and support
NPA: Office of Disability Employment Policy Location: Washington, DC Date Submitted: 2022 Website: https://www.dol.gov/
Resources: Quality Work Environment Workbook