Supported Employment is competitive employment in the community that includes the provision of ongoing support for an individual with intellectual or developmental disabilities. (I/DD). We also serve as a resource for employers,  providing relevant information that results in clear understanding, realistic expectations, and improved outcomes for the business.

Supported Employment staff, referred to as job coaches, match job seekers’ interests and abilities with available work opportunities. Support provided through the pre-employment process includes assistance with applications, interviews, and orientation to the new job.

After reporting to work, we offer the new employee as much assistance as necessary to enable them to fulfill their responsibilities and make real contributions to the workplace. As they become more independent in successfully performing their job duties and integrating into the employment setting, we reduce the intensity of support.

Job coaches remain involved, monitoring progress and communicating with employers, and they are available to provide additional training when needed or assist with any transitions that arise.

Job Coaches provide education and information to employers regarding the benefits that many companies who hire individuals with intellectual disabilities have experienced:

• Lower Turnover
• Lower Rates of Absenteeism
• Job Loyalty
• Customer Satisfaction
• Tax Advantages
• High Employee/ Workplace Morale

Another way employers can benefit is through the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), which is a Federal tax credit available to employers who hire individuals from target groups with significant barriers to employment. WOTC can reduce an employer’s cost of doing business and reduce an employer’s federal income tax liability by up to $2,400, depending on the target group of the new employee and the number of hours worked in the first year. There is no limit on the number of individuals an employer can hire to qualify to claim the tax credit.

Information on eligibility and how to apply is available on the WOTC website at http://www.doleta.gov/wotc.

Information on how to claim the tax credit is available on the IRS website at http://www.irs.gov.

If you would like more information about the program, please contact Supported Employment at 423-374-2910.