Think Work

Data Note 61: Social Security Administration Data Show a Record Low Level of PASS Usage Among SSI Recipients

The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers a set of work incentives for Supplemental Security income (SSI) beneficiaries. Work incentive employment supports help SSI recipients go to work by minimizing the risk of losing their SSI or Medicaid benefits (Social Security Administration, 2018). One such incentive, the Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS), allows approved individuals to set aside earned or unearned income and resources to achieve an employment goal.

Data Note: State Intellectual and Developmental Disability Agencies’ Service Trends

In FY2016, an estimated 638,568 individuals received day or employment supports from state IDD program agencies. This number grew from 455,824 in FY1999. The estimated number of individuals in integrated employment services increased from 108,227 in FY1999 to 120,244 in FY2016. Despite the trend to terminate facility-based services in some states, the overall state investment continues to emphasize non-work services, rather than integrated employment services.

State Employment First Policies #3: Investing in Training and Technical Assistance to Build Capacity in Integrated Employment

This brief is the third in a series focusing on Employment First implementation as it relates to one of the seven elements within the High-Performing States in Integrated Employment model. As states undergo implementation of their policies, it is important to understand how state agencies have built employment knowledge and capacity. Download here.

State Employment First Policies #2: Engaging Stakeholders in Development and Implementation

This brief is the second in a series focusing on Employment First implementation as it relates to one of the seven elements within the High-Performing States in Integrated Employment model. It looks at the and partnership element in depth. Interagency partnership and collaboration includes interagency agreements and relationships, provider collaboration, and outreach to stakeholders to ensure that integrated employment is a shared goal.

Izzy: Building Employment Skills Through an Internship

Izzy stands facing the camera in front of white double doors, with a sign just noticeable in each door’s window. Izzy is 23 years old and lives with her family in Tampa, Florida. She loves swimming, working out, and baking. An internship at an assisted-living facility and related classes at the University of South Florida's Learning Academy helped her succeed later at her first paid job.

State Employment First Policies #1: State Definitions, Goals and Values

This brief is the first in a series focusing on Employment First implementation as it relates to one of the seven elements within the High-Performing States in Integrated Employment model. It examines the background of circumstances under which Employment First efforts began in seven states, and introduces each state’s values, mission, and goals around increasing employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Jeremy: How Early Work Experiences Supported Personal and Career Development

Jeremy faces the camera and smiles, against a beige-colored background. Jeremy lives in Griffith, Indiana, and says he is always busy and trying to better himself. Since graduating from high school, he has held a 35- to 40-hour-a-week job at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, is completing his final semester towards a college degree in office administration, and is pursuing his passion to be a magician.

Briana: Using Vocational Rehabilitation and Self-Directed Funds for Job Development

Briana is 24 years old. She describes herself as a happy person, and enjoys competitive cheerleading in her free time. Briana works 18 hours a week, making $8.40 per hour, at Red Robin Restaurant in Tigard, Oregon, two bus rides away from her home in Beaverton. Her duties include folding napkins, rolling cleaned silverware, and preparing wrappers for burgers. Briana used funds through the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services to hire a job coach to help her develop this job.

Francesca: How a Service Term Led to a Paid Position

photo of francesca Francesca lives in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and works at the William Rowan Elementary School as a teacher's assistant. All her life, she has been interested in a career helping children. She began working in the school system as an AmeriCorps member, did very well, and was offered a paid job.

Mia: Acquiring Skills to Lead and Motivate Others

Mia stands at a podium, with a microphone in front of her, hands grasping the sides of the podium, and smiling Mia lives in Des Moines, Iowa. She enjoys running, swimming, bicycling, movies, and traveling with her friends and boyfriend. She also enjoys speaking and singing in front of large groups of people. In high school, Mia participated in theater and speech competitions. She also is an avid reader and writer and enjoys communicating through her written work and videos. Mia is now putting all of these skills and interests together to run her own business.

Subscribe to