“Any high school student with a disability who may need vocational guidance and assistance in preparing for, obtaining, or maintaining competitive employment should be considered for referral to the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR). Students who have an Individualized Educational Program (IEP), a 504 Plan, or who are involved with a school’s Student Assistance Program may be appropriate referrals to OVR.”
~~“Working with the Bureau of Special Education (BSE), Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE), PaTTAN provides a full array of professional development and technical assistance targeted to improving student results. This professional development and technical assistance takes many forms in order to meet the varied needs of PaTTAN’s constituents. Week-long summer institutes, ongoing professional development series, webinars, on-site assistance, and individual student or teacher supports are some of the means by which PaTTAN provides support to schools.”
“Provides community participation support, education support services, homemaker/chore, in-home and community support, residential habilitation, respite, supported employment, supports coordination, specialized supplies, therapy services, supports broker services, advanced supported employment, American Sign Language – English interpreter service, assistive technology, behavioral support, benefits counseling, communication specialist, companion, consultative nutritional services, family medical support assistance, family/caregiver training and support, home accessibility adaptations, housing transition and tenancy sustaining services, life sharing, music therapy/art therapy/equine assisted therapy, participant-directed goods and services, remote supports, shift nursing, small group employment, supported living, transportation, and vehicle accessibility adaptation services to individuals with autism ages 0 or older, individuals with developmental disabilities ages 0-21 years, and individuals with intellectual disabilities ages 0 or older who meet an ICF/IID level of care. This waiver operates with a concurrent 1915(b)(4) authority.”
“Pennsylvania aims to increase employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Act 36 of 2018 or the Employment First Act will provide training, education, and support services to help individuals reach their personal goals. The Governor’s Cabinet for People with Disabilities, otherwise known as the Employment First Cabinet, meets quarterly and releases an annual progress report on Pennsylvania’s implementation of Act 36.”
This page has links to Employment First Documents and Reports.
“InVEST
The Integrated Vocational Engagement & Support Team (InVEST) Project opens new doors to competitive integrated employment (CIE) for Pennsylvanians with disabilities, including students and youth…For individuals with disabilities and their families, InVEST offers personalized job support and opportunities for career development. As an active Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) customer, InVEST services will help you transition from subminimum wage employment to a career path that values your professional growth and personal independence.”
“Services for Persons for Disabilities
Pennsylvania provides many services for people who may need help in their day-to-day lives. These programs are offered through different state agencies and county organizations.”
“Supporting Disability-Owned Businesses
If you are an entrepreneur with a disability who is either interested in starting or currently owns a business in Pennsylvania, there are many organizations that offer services specifically geared toward supporting you and your business. The resources in this section range from local to national and offer specific opportunities and funding to disability-owned businesses.”