Employment

In 2012 New Jersey became an Employment First state. Employment First states that competitive integrated employment is the first and preferred post-education activity for everyone, including people with disabilities. New Jersey is also one of forty plus states with an active chapter of The Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE). APSE is the only national organization focusing exclusively on Employment First.

There have been tremendous efforts to educate students with disabilities and their families about employment opportunities and services that can support them. In addition, supports and services are available to people who are older and may never have had the opportunity to work since they left the education entitlement.

Employment support services can be provided through the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS). Once employment services and supports have been exhausted through DVRS, The Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) can provide these supports for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through one of the two waivers.

When people with disabilities work, we all benefit. The workers receive real pay for real work and dignity from gainful employment. Businesses receive talented employees that remain on the job for longer periods of time. Communities have more consumers spending their dollars locally and taxes that are paid by an employee with a disability lower the tax burden for all citizens.