Employment First

~~The Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities believes that all people, regardless of disability, should have the opportunity to work and recognizes that individuals with I/DD achieve successful employment outcomes when:
•They are empowered to drive their job search process;
•They have access to services and supports; and
•They are given the opportunity to engage in a Customized Employment

In 2017 Governor David Y. Ige signed a Proclamation identifying October as Disability Employment Awareness month, and endorsed Hawai’i’s designation as an Employment First state.  In this proclamation, Governor Ige encouraged all citizens of the Aloha State to fully participate in the workforce and bring their individual strengths and talents to augment Hawai’i’s business and industry.