March 2022
DETAC-2022-DDN-1

Authored by:
Steven Schwartz, CPR
Ruby Moore, GAO

The basic pillars of effective integrated employment systems include: (1) supported employment services; (2) outreach, in-reach, and informed choice; (3) assessment, career development plans, and service planning; (4) closing sheltered workshops; (5) transitioning individuals from sheltered workshops to integrated employment; (6) the role of vocational rehabilitation; (7) the role of school districts; (8) training and technical assistance; (9) funding; (10) outcomes; (11) data and reporting; and (12) monitoring and coordination.

This article will focus on the first four pillars of competent systems advancing CIE for people with disabilities.

This is the third in a four-part series of articles on competitive integrated employment (CIE). The first, Ending Segregated Workshops and Promoting Competitive Integrated Employment, addressed relevant legislation, court decisions, and litigation strategies for shuttering segregated employment programs. The second, Advancing Competitive Integrated Employment through Legal Advocacy Systems, surveyed successful policy, legislative, and community stakeholder strategies in reforming systems and requiring CIE in law and practice.