Expanded Employment Choice Model for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

The Institute released an RFI to identify a Community Rehabilitation Program (CRP) to partner with in the exploratory pilot phase of the Expanded Employment Choice research and demonstration model on June 10, 2011.  Nearly 30 CRPs responded to the Expanded Employment Choice RFI request.  We were pleased to learn more about the activities and programs that CRPs across the country are pursuing in order to increase options and support preference in employment choice for people with significant intellectual and developmental disabilities. 
 

On July 5, 2011 the Institute announced that PARC – Pioneer Adult Rehabilitation Center – in Clearfield, UT had been selected as the pilot site due to the strength of their current employment and training and placement programs (supported and customized employment; case management) and other critical attributes needed (workforce, partnerships, community relationships) to be a successful exploratory pilot site.

The goal of this exploratory pilot is to expand employment opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through a model that utilizes an in-depth discovery process and experiential learning as a basis for informed choice among employment alternatives that include community-based integrated employment.  The project will provide opportunities for adults and youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities (including those currently working in facility based settings) to experience different types of jobs and work settings through work rotations with different employers.