WIOA/ Workforce Development
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) maintains a primary focus on assisting job seekers with and without disabilities in succeeding in the labor market, matching employers with skilled workers who benefit from education, skills training, and career services from the workforce development system. The LEAD Center is focused on highlighting the opportunities presented in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) to build integrated cross-system collaborations that improve employment and economic outcomes for youth and adult job seekers with disabilities.
Categories - LG Tablet
Categories - SM Tablet
Resources
- A Resource Developed by LEAD Center for ODEP
Pathways TO Employment and OUT of Poverty
| December 2014 | Presentation
LEAD Center
These presentation slides accompanied a LEAD Center session of the same title during the 2014 TASH Conference. The session provided an overview of the role of service providers, parents, supports, and self-advocates is to identify, introduce and...
Successful Employment: How Local American Job Centers (AJCs) Can Help
| December 2014 | Presentation
LEAD Center
Many people with developmental disabilities believe that they aren’t eligible for American Job Center (AJC) services or that the services won’t accommodate their needs.
LEAD Center Policy Brief: Summary of Major Policies Included in Titles I and IV of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
| October 2014 | Report/Brief
LEAD Center
On July 22, 2014, President Obama signed into law the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) (Public Law No. 113-128). The LEAD Center has created a summary of the major amendments to Titles I and IV of the Workforce Investment Act from a...
Stay-at-Work and Return-to-Work: Supporting Employees Who Experience Unexpected Illness or Disability
September 2014 | Report/Brief
United States Department of Labor
This publication describes several approaches to employee retention, including taking leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or as a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and obtaining assistance from...
Opening the Doors of Small Business to Employees with Disabilities: Critical Concerns and Strategies for Success
August 2014 | Report/Brief
Employer Assistance and Resource Network
The purpose of this report is to assist small businesses "open the doors" and provide employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
Improving Employment Outcomes for People with Psychiatric Disorders and Other Disabilities
April 2014 | Report/Brief
Mathematica
Mathematica conducted a comprehensive literature review of services and supports that facilitate employment for people with psychiatric disorders. The review focused on three subgroups: (1) long-term clients of mental health services, (2) workers at...
Research Brief: Disability Inclusive Recruitment and Hiring Practices and Policies: Who Has Them and What Difference Does it Really Make?
January 2014 | Report/Brief
Employment and Disability Institute, Cornell University, 2014. This report examines the prevalence of inclusive workforce practices and policies that can help improve the recruitment, hiring and retention of workers with disabilities. The report...
Fact Sheet: Flexible Work Arrangements
| July 2013 | Report/Brief
LEAD Center, July 2013. This fact sheet desribes various best practices for employers when making job modifications to enable employees with disabilities to stay on the job or return to work.
The Business Case for Workplace Flexibility
| July 2013 | Presentation
LEAD Center, July 2013. This presentation was used to lead a workshop titled "The Business Case for Workplace Flexibility" at the NAWDP Annual Conference, and details how workplace flexibility can strategically meet the needs of individuals with...
Employer Assistance & Resource Network (EARN)
Website
National Employer Policy, Research and Technical Assistance Center for Employers on the Employment of People with Disabilities (Employer TA Center)
- A Resource Developed by LEAD Center for ODEP
Webinars
Implementing the WIOA Final Rule (Title I) from a Disability Perspective: What Workforce Professionals and Partners Need to Know
July 28, 2016
Join this webinar to learn about the provisions in Title I of the Final Rule that create opportunities for youth and adults with disabilities.
Maintaining Employment Through Economic Advancement Strategies
March 26, 2014
This webinar, as part of our Employment mini-series, will provide information on strategies for enhancing employment stability and improving time on the job through the use of economic advancement strategies.
NAWDP Webinar: Improving Services for All Job Seekers by Improving Services to Customers with Disabilities
September 16, 2014
The new Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act places a greater emphasis on serving all job seekers – regardless of ability.
Promoting Competitive Integrated Employment: What You Can Do
October 24, 2018
Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE) is critical to achieving equal opportunity, full participation, and economic self-sufficiency for people with disabilities -- and so are you.
Section 188, the Nondiscrimination Provisions of WIOA - Part 4 of a 4-part Series on WIOA
September 24, 2015
Join this webinar to learn about best practices in Section 188 implementation and compliance.
Section 503: Connecting Job Seekers with Disabilities and Federal Contractors through the Workforce Development System
April 23, 2014
There are new challenges and opportunities for federal contractors as a result of requirements of the Section 503 final rule.
State Workforce Systems that are Making Equal Opportunity a Priority: Missouri, Virginia, California - Series 2 of 3
April 4, 2018
In the second webinar, representatives from three States share their motivations, strategies, challenges and actions in implementing effective AJC Certification procedures, with Section 188 as the framework.
The Inclusive Career Pathways Roadmap: Navigating the Road to Employment and Economic Self-Sufficiency
February 20, 2019
The road to Inclusive Career Pathways can be difficult for stakeholders and workforce professionals to navigate. The destination is achieving Employment and Economic Self-Sufficiency for people with disabilities. Getting there is the tricky part.
Understanding Changes Regarding Youth Services - Part 3 of a 4-Part Series on WIOA
June 24, 2015
View this webinar to learn more about cross-system collaboration and WIOA opportunities to support career counseling, skills training, job exploration, leadership development, and financial literacy education for youth with and without disabilities.
What Disability Advocates Need to Know about New WIOA Equal Opportunity Provisions
February 28, 2017
View this webinar archive to learn what disability advocates need to know about changes in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act’s (WIOA’s) Equal Opportunity Provisions (Section 188).
Policy Updates
New Mathematica Policy Article on Long-Term Work Activity and Use of Employment Supports for Supplemental Security Income Recipients
March 30, 2015
Professional staff from the Mathematica Policy Research’s Center for Studying Disability Policy has published a new article in the Social Security Bulletin explor
California Agrees to Transform Employment Services for People with Disabilities - Many Paid Through Medicaid
February 27, 2015
Three California agencies and the state protection and advocacy system have announced a new collaboration on a six-month blueprint to encourage competitive integrated employment for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Delaware Plan for Supporting People with Mental Health, Substance use Disorders in Finding Employment
February 27, 2015
During remarks on his policy agenda for 2015, Delaware Governor Jack Markell has announced a statewide plan for Delawareans to thrive amidst a changing economy that strengthens statefunded education and employment initiatives.
New Guide on Mental Health Parity in Workplaces
February 27, 2015
The Partnership for Workplace Mental Health released a new guide on employer compliance with the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act.
Briefing on Earnings Disparity for Workers with Disabilities
January 30, 2015
On January 22, the American Institutes for Research (AIR) held a congressional briefing session on the earnings disparity between workers with disabilities and nondisabled workers.
Delaware 1915(I) Plan Starting January 2015 Will Focus on Employment Supports for Workers with Disabilities
January 30, 2015
Delaware’s Pathways to Employment program, which will provide a variety of employment services to people with targeted disabilities, came into effect on January 1, 20
Fair Wages for Workers with Disabilities Act Introduced (H.R. 188)
January 30, 2015
This month, Congressman Gregg Harper of Mississippi introduced H.R. 188, the Fair Wages for Workers with Disabilities Act of 2015. Representative Harper introduced an identical bill in 2013 that gained 97 co-sponsors before dying.
WIOA Advisory Committee Named
January 30, 2015
The Department of Labor has named the members of its new Advisory Committee on Increasing Competitive Integrated Employment for Individuals with Disabilities.
‘Hire More Heroes’ Offers Veterans Boost for Small Business Jobs
January 30, 2015
In early January, House Republicans announced the re-introduction of the Hire More Heroes Act, which would incentivize small businesses to hire military retirees, reservists and veterans with disabilities.
LEAD On! Articles
News
President Signs Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act into Law
July 22, 2014
On Tuesday, July 22, President Obama formally signed into law H.R. 803, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
Congress Approves Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
July 9, 2014
On July 9, the U.S. House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed by a 415 to 6 vote H.R. 803, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), a bill to improve and streamline the federal workforce development system.
Bipartisan Agreement Reached to Reauthorize WIA
May 23, 2014
On May 21, the Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, Senator Tom Harkin (D-Iowa), announced an agreement had been reached to reauthorize the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) of 1998, a law that had sunset in...
LEAD Center Presents at 2014 NAWDP Conference
May 16, 2014
Earlier this week, LEAD Center staff visited Denver, Colo. to deliver a presentation at the 2014 National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP) Conference.
DOL Assistant Secretary Kathy Martinez Pens Blog Post on Meeting the Demands of an Expanding Health Care Workforce at DOL "Work In Progress" Blog
April 15, 2014
On April 15, U.S.. Assistant Secretary of Labor for Disability Employment Policy Kathy Martinez wrote a blog explaining why the skills and perspectives of workers with disabilities are needed to help bridge the employment gap in the health care...
President Obama Signs Executive Order Including People with Disabilities in Minimum Wage Hike for Federal Contractor Workers
February 12, 2014
President Obama included workers with disabilities in an executive order he signed today raising the minimum wage for federal contractors to $10.10/hour.
ODEP Releases New Policy Brief on Health Care Transition and Employment for Youth with Disabilities
January 10, 2014
The Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) at the U.S. Department of Labor released a new policy brief recently on health care transition and employment.
October 1 Marks the Start of National Disability Employment Awareness Month
October 1, 2013
October’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) kicked off today with the 2013 “Because We Are All Equal to the Task” Campaign.
DOL to Host Twitter Chat on New Rules for People with Disabilities & Veterans - September 13th
September 10, 2013
Recently, Vice President Biden announced two
Save the Date! Employers: What Can We Do? Join the Conversation for Change on September 9 -11, 2013
August 30, 2013
Help shape federal strategies to assist employers in creating a diverse workforce that includes people with disabilities
Blogs
In The Know: Do Ask, Do Tell
April 29, 2016
How can companies encourage employees with disabilities to self-identify? And why is this important?
Show Support for Adults on the Autism Spectrum by Promoting Fair Wages
April 12, 2016
For many, one of the most important parts of the transition to adulthood is finding meaningful employment. However, people on the autism spectrum still face immense barriers to finding good jobs in their communities.
In The Know: Workplace Accommodations – Low Cost, High Impact
March 8, 2016
Employers are often concerned with the costs of providing workplace accommodations. However, a study by the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) found that such accommodations are low cost and have a big impact.
In the Know: Employer Assistance and Resource Network (EARN)
January 14, 2016
In the Know is a bi-monthly feature on the LEAD Center blog that highlights important resources and information about the employment, policy and economic advancement of people with disabilities. To find even more useful resources, visit the LEAD...
In the Know: Reasonable Accommodation - A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
December 17, 2015
In the Know is a bi-monthly feature on the LEAD Center blog that highlights important resources and information about the employment, policy and economic advancement of people with disabilities.
In the Know: Return to Work Programs
November 12, 2015
In the Know is a bi-monthly feature on the LEAD Center blog that highlights important resources and information about the employment, policy and economic advancement of people with disabilities.
My Son is a Public Policy Success
October 29, 2015
He’s 28, on the autism spectrum, and just got a job with a large company in Silicon Valley.
It’s All About Who You Know!
October 21, 2015
People who are successful in work (and life) use the people who know them to open doors to jobs, careers, work experiences and opportunities.
In the Know: What Every Employer Needs to Know - Key Success Factors for Hiring People with Disabilities
October 15, 2015
In the Know is a bi-monthly feature on the LEAD Center blog that highlights important resources and information about the employment, policy and economic advancement of people with disabilities.
In the Know: A Comprehensive Approach to Transition
September 24, 2015
In the Know is a bi-monthly feature on the LEAD Center blog that highlights important resources and information about the employment, policy and economic advancement of people with disabilities.
Categories - Phablet
Resources
- A Resource Developed by LEAD Center for ODEP
Pathways TO Employment and OUT of Poverty
| December 2014 | Presentation
LEAD Center
These presentation slides accompanied a LEAD Center session of the same title during the 2014 TASH Conference. The session provided an overview of the role of service providers, parents, supports, and self-advocates is to identify, introduce and...
Successful Employment: How Local American Job Centers (AJCs) Can Help
| December 2014 | Presentation
LEAD Center
Many people with developmental disabilities believe that they aren’t eligible for American Job Center (AJC) services or that the services won’t accommodate their needs.
LEAD Center Policy Brief: Summary of Major Policies Included in Titles I and IV of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
| October 2014 | Report/Brief
LEAD Center
On July 22, 2014, President Obama signed into law the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) (Public Law No. 113-128). The LEAD Center has created a summary of the major amendments to Titles I and IV of the Workforce Investment Act from a...
Stay-at-Work and Return-to-Work: Supporting Employees Who Experience Unexpected Illness or Disability
September 2014 | Report/Brief
United States Department of Labor
This publication describes several approaches to employee retention, including taking leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or as a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and obtaining assistance from...
Opening the Doors of Small Business to Employees with Disabilities: Critical Concerns and Strategies for Success
August 2014 | Report/Brief
Employer Assistance and Resource Network
The purpose of this report is to assist small businesses "open the doors" and provide employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
Improving Employment Outcomes for People with Psychiatric Disorders and Other Disabilities
April 2014 | Report/Brief
Mathematica
Mathematica conducted a comprehensive literature review of services and supports that facilitate employment for people with psychiatric disorders. The review focused on three subgroups: (1) long-term clients of mental health services, (2) workers at...
Research Brief: Disability Inclusive Recruitment and Hiring Practices and Policies: Who Has Them and What Difference Does it Really Make?
January 2014 | Report/Brief
Employment and Disability Institute, Cornell University, 2014. This report examines the prevalence of inclusive workforce practices and policies that can help improve the recruitment, hiring and retention of workers with disabilities. The report...
Fact Sheet: Flexible Work Arrangements
| July 2013 | Report/Brief
LEAD Center, July 2013. This fact sheet desribes various best practices for employers when making job modifications to enable employees with disabilities to stay on the job or return to work.
The Business Case for Workplace Flexibility
| July 2013 | Presentation
LEAD Center, July 2013. This presentation was used to lead a workshop titled "The Business Case for Workplace Flexibility" at the NAWDP Annual Conference, and details how workplace flexibility can strategically meet the needs of individuals with...
Employer Assistance & Resource Network (EARN)
Website
National Employer Policy, Research and Technical Assistance Center for Employers on the Employment of People with Disabilities (Employer TA Center)
- A Resource Developed by LEAD Center for ODEP
Webinars
Implementing the WIOA Final Rule (Title I) from a Disability Perspective: What Workforce Professionals and Partners Need to Know
July 28, 2016
Join this webinar to learn about the provisions in Title I of the Final Rule that create opportunities for youth and adults with disabilities.
Maintaining Employment Through Economic Advancement Strategies
March 26, 2014
This webinar, as part of our Employment mini-series, will provide information on strategies for enhancing employment stability and improving time on the job through the use of economic advancement strategies.
NAWDP Webinar: Improving Services for All Job Seekers by Improving Services to Customers with Disabilities
September 16, 2014
The new Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act places a greater emphasis on serving all job seekers – regardless of ability.
Promoting Competitive Integrated Employment: What You Can Do
October 24, 2018
Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE) is critical to achieving equal opportunity, full participation, and economic self-sufficiency for people with disabilities -- and so are you.
Section 188, the Nondiscrimination Provisions of WIOA - Part 4 of a 4-part Series on WIOA
September 24, 2015
Join this webinar to learn about best practices in Section 188 implementation and compliance.
Section 503: Connecting Job Seekers with Disabilities and Federal Contractors through the Workforce Development System
April 23, 2014
There are new challenges and opportunities for federal contractors as a result of requirements of the Section 503 final rule.
State Workforce Systems that are Making Equal Opportunity a Priority: Missouri, Virginia, California - Series 2 of 3
April 4, 2018
In the second webinar, representatives from three States share their motivations, strategies, challenges and actions in implementing effective AJC Certification procedures, with Section 188 as the framework.
The Inclusive Career Pathways Roadmap: Navigating the Road to Employment and Economic Self-Sufficiency
February 20, 2019
The road to Inclusive Career Pathways can be difficult for stakeholders and workforce professionals to navigate. The destination is achieving Employment and Economic Self-Sufficiency for people with disabilities. Getting there is the tricky part.
Understanding Changes Regarding Youth Services - Part 3 of a 4-Part Series on WIOA
June 24, 2015
View this webinar to learn more about cross-system collaboration and WIOA opportunities to support career counseling, skills training, job exploration, leadership development, and financial literacy education for youth with and without disabilities.
What Disability Advocates Need to Know about New WIOA Equal Opportunity Provisions
February 28, 2017
View this webinar archive to learn what disability advocates need to know about changes in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act’s (WIOA’s) Equal Opportunity Provisions (Section 188).
Policy Updates
New Mathematica Policy Article on Long-Term Work Activity and Use of Employment Supports for Supplemental Security Income Recipients
March 30, 2015
Professional staff from the Mathematica Policy Research’s Center for Studying Disability Policy has published a new article in the Social Security Bulletin explor
California Agrees to Transform Employment Services for People with Disabilities - Many Paid Through Medicaid
February 27, 2015
Three California agencies and the state protection and advocacy system have announced a new collaboration on a six-month blueprint to encourage competitive integrated employment for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Delaware Plan for Supporting People with Mental Health, Substance use Disorders in Finding Employment
February 27, 2015
During remarks on his policy agenda for 2015, Delaware Governor Jack Markell has announced a statewide plan for Delawareans to thrive amidst a changing economy that strengthens statefunded education and employment initiatives.
New Guide on Mental Health Parity in Workplaces
February 27, 2015
The Partnership for Workplace Mental Health released a new guide on employer compliance with the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act.
Briefing on Earnings Disparity for Workers with Disabilities
January 30, 2015
On January 22, the American Institutes for Research (AIR) held a congressional briefing session on the earnings disparity between workers with disabilities and nondisabled workers.
Delaware 1915(I) Plan Starting January 2015 Will Focus on Employment Supports for Workers with Disabilities
January 30, 2015
Delaware’s Pathways to Employment program, which will provide a variety of employment services to people with targeted disabilities, came into effect on January 1, 20
Fair Wages for Workers with Disabilities Act Introduced (H.R. 188)
January 30, 2015
This month, Congressman Gregg Harper of Mississippi introduced H.R. 188, the Fair Wages for Workers with Disabilities Act of 2015. Representative Harper introduced an identical bill in 2013 that gained 97 co-sponsors before dying.
WIOA Advisory Committee Named
January 30, 2015
The Department of Labor has named the members of its new Advisory Committee on Increasing Competitive Integrated Employment for Individuals with Disabilities.
‘Hire More Heroes’ Offers Veterans Boost for Small Business Jobs
January 30, 2015
In early January, House Republicans announced the re-introduction of the Hire More Heroes Act, which would incentivize small businesses to hire military retirees, reservists and veterans with disabilities.
LEAD On! Articles
News
President Signs Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act into Law
July 22, 2014
On Tuesday, July 22, President Obama formally signed into law H.R. 803, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
Congress Approves Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
July 9, 2014
On July 9, the U.S. House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed by a 415 to 6 vote H.R. 803, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), a bill to improve and streamline the federal workforce development system.
Bipartisan Agreement Reached to Reauthorize WIA
May 23, 2014
On May 21, the Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, Senator Tom Harkin (D-Iowa), announced an agreement had been reached to reauthorize the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) of 1998, a law that had sunset in...
LEAD Center Presents at 2014 NAWDP Conference
May 16, 2014
Earlier this week, LEAD Center staff visited Denver, Colo. to deliver a presentation at the 2014 National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP) Conference.
DOL Assistant Secretary Kathy Martinez Pens Blog Post on Meeting the Demands of an Expanding Health Care Workforce at DOL "Work In Progress" Blog
April 15, 2014
On April 15, U.S.. Assistant Secretary of Labor for Disability Employment Policy Kathy Martinez wrote a blog explaining why the skills and perspectives of workers with disabilities are needed to help bridge the employment gap in the health care...
President Obama Signs Executive Order Including People with Disabilities in Minimum Wage Hike for Federal Contractor Workers
February 12, 2014
President Obama included workers with disabilities in an executive order he signed today raising the minimum wage for federal contractors to $10.10/hour.
ODEP Releases New Policy Brief on Health Care Transition and Employment for Youth with Disabilities
January 10, 2014
The Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) at the U.S. Department of Labor released a new policy brief recently on health care transition and employment.
October 1 Marks the Start of National Disability Employment Awareness Month
October 1, 2013
October’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) kicked off today with the 2013 “Because We Are All Equal to the Task” Campaign.
DOL to Host Twitter Chat on New Rules for People with Disabilities & Veterans - September 13th
September 10, 2013
Recently, Vice President Biden announced two
Save the Date! Employers: What Can We Do? Join the Conversation for Change on September 9 -11, 2013
August 30, 2013
Help shape federal strategies to assist employers in creating a diverse workforce that includes people with disabilities
Blogs
In The Know: Do Ask, Do Tell
April 29, 2016
How can companies encourage employees with disabilities to self-identify? And why is this important?
Show Support for Adults on the Autism Spectrum by Promoting Fair Wages
April 12, 2016
For many, one of the most important parts of the transition to adulthood is finding meaningful employment. However, people on the autism spectrum still face immense barriers to finding good jobs in their communities.
In The Know: Workplace Accommodations – Low Cost, High Impact
March 8, 2016
Employers are often concerned with the costs of providing workplace accommodations. However, a study by the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) found that such accommodations are low cost and have a big impact.
In the Know: Employer Assistance and Resource Network (EARN)
January 14, 2016
In the Know is a bi-monthly feature on the LEAD Center blog that highlights important resources and information about the employment, policy and economic advancement of people with disabilities. To find even more useful resources, visit the LEAD...
In the Know: Reasonable Accommodation - A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
December 17, 2015
In the Know is a bi-monthly feature on the LEAD Center blog that highlights important resources and information about the employment, policy and economic advancement of people with disabilities.
In the Know: Return to Work Programs
November 12, 2015
In the Know is a bi-monthly feature on the LEAD Center blog that highlights important resources and information about the employment, policy and economic advancement of people with disabilities.
My Son is a Public Policy Success
October 29, 2015
He’s 28, on the autism spectrum, and just got a job with a large company in Silicon Valley.
It’s All About Who You Know!
October 21, 2015
People who are successful in work (and life) use the people who know them to open doors to jobs, careers, work experiences and opportunities.
In the Know: What Every Employer Needs to Know - Key Success Factors for Hiring People with Disabilities
October 15, 2015
In the Know is a bi-monthly feature on the LEAD Center blog that highlights important resources and information about the employment, policy and economic advancement of people with disabilities.
In the Know: A Comprehensive Approach to Transition
September 24, 2015
In the Know is a bi-monthly feature on the LEAD Center blog that highlights important resources and information about the employment, policy and economic advancement of people with disabilities.
Categories - Phone
Resources
- A Resource Developed by LEAD Center for ODEP
Pathways TO Employment and OUT of Poverty
| December 2014 | Presentation
LEAD Center
These presentation slides accompanied a LEAD Center session of the same title during the 2014 TASH Conference. The session provided an overview of the role of service providers, parents, supports, and self-advocates is to identify, introduce and...
Successful Employment: How Local American Job Centers (AJCs) Can Help
| December 2014 | Presentation
LEAD Center
Many people with developmental disabilities believe that they aren’t eligible for American Job Center (AJC) services or that the services won’t accommodate their needs.
LEAD Center Policy Brief: Summary of Major Policies Included in Titles I and IV of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
| October 2014 | Report/Brief
LEAD Center
On July 22, 2014, President Obama signed into law the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) (Public Law No. 113-128). The LEAD Center has created a summary of the major amendments to Titles I and IV of the Workforce Investment Act from a...
Stay-at-Work and Return-to-Work: Supporting Employees Who Experience Unexpected Illness or Disability
September 2014 | Report/Brief
United States Department of Labor
This publication describes several approaches to employee retention, including taking leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or as a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and obtaining assistance from...
Opening the Doors of Small Business to Employees with Disabilities: Critical Concerns and Strategies for Success
August 2014 | Report/Brief
Employer Assistance and Resource Network
The purpose of this report is to assist small businesses "open the doors" and provide employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
Improving Employment Outcomes for People with Psychiatric Disorders and Other Disabilities
April 2014 | Report/Brief
Mathematica
Mathematica conducted a comprehensive literature review of services and supports that facilitate employment for people with psychiatric disorders. The review focused on three subgroups: (1) long-term clients of mental health services, (2) workers at...
Research Brief: Disability Inclusive Recruitment and Hiring Practices and Policies: Who Has Them and What Difference Does it Really Make?
January 2014 | Report/Brief
Employment and Disability Institute, Cornell University, 2014. This report examines the prevalence of inclusive workforce practices and policies that can help improve the recruitment, hiring and retention of workers with disabilities. The report...
Fact Sheet: Flexible Work Arrangements
| July 2013 | Report/Brief
LEAD Center, July 2013. This fact sheet desribes various best practices for employers when making job modifications to enable employees with disabilities to stay on the job or return to work.
The Business Case for Workplace Flexibility
| July 2013 | Presentation
LEAD Center, July 2013. This presentation was used to lead a workshop titled "The Business Case for Workplace Flexibility" at the NAWDP Annual Conference, and details how workplace flexibility can strategically meet the needs of individuals with...
Employer Assistance & Resource Network (EARN)
Website
National Employer Policy, Research and Technical Assistance Center for Employers on the Employment of People with Disabilities (Employer TA Center)
- A Resource Developed by LEAD Center for ODEP
Webinars
Implementing the WIOA Final Rule (Title I) from a Disability Perspective: What Workforce Professionals and Partners Need to Know
July 28, 2016
Join this webinar to learn about the provisions in Title I of the Final Rule that create opportunities for youth and adults with disabilities.
Maintaining Employment Through Economic Advancement Strategies
March 26, 2014
This webinar, as part of our Employment mini-series, will provide information on strategies for enhancing employment stability and improving time on the job through the use of economic advancement strategies.
NAWDP Webinar: Improving Services for All Job Seekers by Improving Services to Customers with Disabilities
September 16, 2014
The new Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act places a greater emphasis on serving all job seekers – regardless of ability.
Promoting Competitive Integrated Employment: What You Can Do
October 24, 2018
Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE) is critical to achieving equal opportunity, full participation, and economic self-sufficiency for people with disabilities -- and so are you.
Section 188, the Nondiscrimination Provisions of WIOA - Part 4 of a 4-part Series on WIOA
September 24, 2015
Join this webinar to learn about best practices in Section 188 implementation and compliance.
Section 503: Connecting Job Seekers with Disabilities and Federal Contractors through the Workforce Development System
April 23, 2014
There are new challenges and opportunities for federal contractors as a result of requirements of the Section 503 final rule.
State Workforce Systems that are Making Equal Opportunity a Priority: Missouri, Virginia, California - Series 2 of 3
April 4, 2018
In the second webinar, representatives from three States share their motivations, strategies, challenges and actions in implementing effective AJC Certification procedures, with Section 188 as the framework.
The Inclusive Career Pathways Roadmap: Navigating the Road to Employment and Economic Self-Sufficiency
February 20, 2019
The road to Inclusive Career Pathways can be difficult for stakeholders and workforce professionals to navigate. The destination is achieving Employment and Economic Self-Sufficiency for people with disabilities. Getting there is the tricky part.
Understanding Changes Regarding Youth Services - Part 3 of a 4-Part Series on WIOA
June 24, 2015
View this webinar to learn more about cross-system collaboration and WIOA opportunities to support career counseling, skills training, job exploration, leadership development, and financial literacy education for youth with and without disabilities.
What Disability Advocates Need to Know about New WIOA Equal Opportunity Provisions
February 28, 2017
View this webinar archive to learn what disability advocates need to know about changes in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act’s (WIOA’s) Equal Opportunity Provisions (Section 188).
Policy Updates
New Mathematica Policy Article on Long-Term Work Activity and Use of Employment Supports for Supplemental Security Income Recipients
March 30, 2015
Professional staff from the Mathematica Policy Research’s Center for Studying Disability Policy has published a new article in the Social Security Bulletin explor
California Agrees to Transform Employment Services for People with Disabilities - Many Paid Through Medicaid
February 27, 2015
Three California agencies and the state protection and advocacy system have announced a new collaboration on a six-month blueprint to encourage competitive integrated employment for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Delaware Plan for Supporting People with Mental Health, Substance use Disorders in Finding Employment
February 27, 2015
During remarks on his policy agenda for 2015, Delaware Governor Jack Markell has announced a statewide plan for Delawareans to thrive amidst a changing economy that strengthens statefunded education and employment initiatives.
New Guide on Mental Health Parity in Workplaces
February 27, 2015
The Partnership for Workplace Mental Health released a new guide on employer compliance with the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act.
Briefing on Earnings Disparity for Workers with Disabilities
January 30, 2015
On January 22, the American Institutes for Research (AIR) held a congressional briefing session on the earnings disparity between workers with disabilities and nondisabled workers.
Delaware 1915(I) Plan Starting January 2015 Will Focus on Employment Supports for Workers with Disabilities
January 30, 2015
Delaware’s Pathways to Employment program, which will provide a variety of employment services to people with targeted disabilities, came into effect on January 1, 20
Fair Wages for Workers with Disabilities Act Introduced (H.R. 188)
January 30, 2015
This month, Congressman Gregg Harper of Mississippi introduced H.R. 188, the Fair Wages for Workers with Disabilities Act of 2015. Representative Harper introduced an identical bill in 2013 that gained 97 co-sponsors before dying.
WIOA Advisory Committee Named
January 30, 2015
The Department of Labor has named the members of its new Advisory Committee on Increasing Competitive Integrated Employment for Individuals with Disabilities.
‘Hire More Heroes’ Offers Veterans Boost for Small Business Jobs
January 30, 2015
In early January, House Republicans announced the re-introduction of the Hire More Heroes Act, which would incentivize small businesses to hire military retirees, reservists and veterans with disabilities.
LEAD On! Articles
News
President Signs Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act into Law
July 22, 2014
On Tuesday, July 22, President Obama formally signed into law H.R. 803, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
Congress Approves Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
July 9, 2014
On July 9, the U.S. House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed by a 415 to 6 vote H.R. 803, the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), a bill to improve and streamline the federal workforce development system.
Bipartisan Agreement Reached to Reauthorize WIA
May 23, 2014
On May 21, the Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, Senator Tom Harkin (D-Iowa), announced an agreement had been reached to reauthorize the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) of 1998, a law that had sunset in...
LEAD Center Presents at 2014 NAWDP Conference
May 16, 2014
Earlier this week, LEAD Center staff visited Denver, Colo. to deliver a presentation at the 2014 National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP) Conference.
DOL Assistant Secretary Kathy Martinez Pens Blog Post on Meeting the Demands of an Expanding Health Care Workforce at DOL "Work In Progress" Blog
April 15, 2014
On April 15, U.S.. Assistant Secretary of Labor for Disability Employment Policy Kathy Martinez wrote a blog explaining why the skills and perspectives of workers with disabilities are needed to help bridge the employment gap in the health care...
President Obama Signs Executive Order Including People with Disabilities in Minimum Wage Hike for Federal Contractor Workers
February 12, 2014
President Obama included workers with disabilities in an executive order he signed today raising the minimum wage for federal contractors to $10.10/hour.
ODEP Releases New Policy Brief on Health Care Transition and Employment for Youth with Disabilities
January 10, 2014
The Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) at the U.S. Department of Labor released a new policy brief recently on health care transition and employment.
October 1 Marks the Start of National Disability Employment Awareness Month
October 1, 2013
October’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) kicked off today with the 2013 “Because We Are All Equal to the Task” Campaign.
DOL to Host Twitter Chat on New Rules for People with Disabilities & Veterans - September 13th
September 10, 2013
Recently, Vice President Biden announced two
Save the Date! Employers: What Can We Do? Join the Conversation for Change on September 9 -11, 2013
August 30, 2013
Help shape federal strategies to assist employers in creating a diverse workforce that includes people with disabilities
Blogs
In The Know: Do Ask, Do Tell
April 29, 2016
How can companies encourage employees with disabilities to self-identify? And why is this important?
Show Support for Adults on the Autism Spectrum by Promoting Fair Wages
April 12, 2016
For many, one of the most important parts of the transition to adulthood is finding meaningful employment. However, people on the autism spectrum still face immense barriers to finding good jobs in their communities.
In The Know: Workplace Accommodations – Low Cost, High Impact
March 8, 2016
Employers are often concerned with the costs of providing workplace accommodations. However, a study by the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) found that such accommodations are low cost and have a big impact.
In the Know: Employer Assistance and Resource Network (EARN)
January 14, 2016
In the Know is a bi-monthly feature on the LEAD Center blog that highlights important resources and information about the employment, policy and economic advancement of people with disabilities. To find even more useful resources, visit the LEAD...
In the Know: Reasonable Accommodation - A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
December 17, 2015
In the Know is a bi-monthly feature on the LEAD Center blog that highlights important resources and information about the employment, policy and economic advancement of people with disabilities.
In the Know: Return to Work Programs
November 12, 2015
In the Know is a bi-monthly feature on the LEAD Center blog that highlights important resources and information about the employment, policy and economic advancement of people with disabilities.
My Son is a Public Policy Success
October 29, 2015
He’s 28, on the autism spectrum, and just got a job with a large company in Silicon Valley.
It’s All About Who You Know!
October 21, 2015
People who are successful in work (and life) use the people who know them to open doors to jobs, careers, work experiences and opportunities.
In the Know: What Every Employer Needs to Know - Key Success Factors for Hiring People with Disabilities
October 15, 2015
In the Know is a bi-monthly feature on the LEAD Center blog that highlights important resources and information about the employment, policy and economic advancement of people with disabilities.
In the Know: A Comprehensive Approach to Transition
September 24, 2015
In the Know is a bi-monthly feature on the LEAD Center blog that highlights important resources and information about the employment, policy and economic advancement of people with disabilities.