Preamble

By Donald R. Uchida

Statistical information generated by the Rehabilitation Services administration (RSA) for fiscal years (FY) 2003 to 2005 indicates hat people with autism are severely underserved in terms of chieving employment outcomes by the state/federal vocational rehabilitation (VR) program (see Table). Please be aware that there is a difference between autism and autism spectrum disorder ASD). While the term autism, used by the RSA, has a much narrower definition, the only data available were for autism rather than ASD.

DO-IT serves to increase the participation of individuals with disabilities in challenging academic programs and careers. It promotes the use of computer and networking technologies to increase independence, productivity, and participation in education and employment.

Welcome to Partners in Employment, a self-study course designed to help people with developmental disabilities find meaningful jobs and jumpstart their careers.

After completing this course, you will:

• Understand the hiring process and how it might differ for people with developmental disabilities;   
• Understand supported and competitive employment;   
• Identify a "circle of friends" who can help you achieve your dream;   
• Know your strengths, skills and interests and how they might translate into a career;   
• Understand natural supports and how they might help you succeed;   
• Create a resume or portfolio that presents you and your abilities in the best light;   
• Know how to network and identify potential employers;    
• Be prepared for a successful job interview;   
• Know how to evaluate a job offer to make sure it fits your skills and dreams!
  

Customized Employment Strategies

Customized employment means individualizing the employment relationship between employees and employers in ways that meet the needs of both. It is based on an individualized determination of the strengths, needs, and interests of the person with a disability, and is also designed to meet the specific needs of the employer.

The Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation assists Kentuckians with disabilities to achieve suitable employment and independence.

Kentucky’s Small Business Development Centers have been assisting the Commonwealth’s small business community for more than 20 years. With 15 service centers statewide and an experienced and knowledgeable staff, KSBDC is a great resource for both existing business owners and potential entrepreneurs.

The Office of Disability Employment Policy provides national leadership by developing and influencing disability-related employment policy as well as practice affecting the employment of people with disabilities.

The Department of Labor fosters and promotes the welfare of the job seekers, wage earners, and retirees of the United States by improving their working conditions, advancing their opportunities for profitable employment, protecting their retirement and health care benefits, helping employers find workers, strengthening free collective bargaining, and tracking changes in employment, prices, and other national economic measurements. In carrying out this mission, the Department administers a variety of Federal labor laws including those that guarantee workers’ rights to safe and healthful worki

Mission Statement

To promote the well being of wage-earning women, improve their working conditions, increase their efficiency, and advance their opportunities for profitable employment.