Maine DHHS “Employment Policy for Individuals Served”

This is a Maine Department of Health and Human Services Employment Policy indicating that all individuals are “presumed able and have the opportunity to work.” The Department “shall support career development and meaningful employment for all working aged individuals receiving services through the Department. Employment is part of the natural course of adult life and provides opportunities for economic gain, personal growth and contributing to one’s community. The development of a skilled and motivated workforce is essential to meeting the needs of Maine businesses…

"Implementation of the DHHS Employment Policy will be driven by continuing quality improvement, quality assurance and service accountability consistent with the following tenets: 1. All individuals shall be presumed able and have the opportunity to work. 2. Career planning will result from a strength based approach identifying the individuals’ interests, capabilities and supports needed for successful employment. 3. Employment support will emphasize the development and use of natural connections such as co-workers, supervisors, friends and family. 4. Employment shall be in integrated businesses and offer compensation that is fair and equitable. 5. Employment services shall be culturally and linguistically appropriate. 6. Efforts to increase employment will be coordinated in partnership with other State and Private agencies working toward a strong, diversified Maine workforce.”