Supported Employment in Vermont is Competitive and Integrated - Data Brief
Published by the University of Vermont, Center on Disability and Community Inclusion
The Purpose of this data brief is to share the history and trends of employment for Vermonters with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Vermont has received national and international attention because disability-based subminimum wages and sheltered workshops were eliminated over two decades ago. This Data Brief provides a critical understanding of the data and historical context that makes Vermont a national leader in Supported Employment.
Vermont Supported Employment Infographic
Published by the University of Vermont, Center on Disability and Community Inclusion
Annotated graph showing key policy and programmatic decisions that resulted in Vermont seeing a steady increase over time in people working who receive Developmental Disabilities Services.
International Invitation for DDSD Supported Employment Program
Vermont’s DDSD Supported Employment program has been invited to Berlin, Germany to expand upon the Zero Project award presented to our Vermont delegation at the United Nations in Vienna, Austria last spring (See below.) The Vermont delegation’s presentation at the Spring event captured the attention of Germany’s Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, leading them to request an expanded session at their Inclusion Days of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs on November 4th and 5th, 2017.
The invitation states, “We’d like to invite best-practice inclusion projects from abroad to present their work. Your project was recommended because of its future oriented ideas. Best practices on inclusion from around the world will be presented, fostering international cooperation and contributing to the implementation of Article 32 of the UNCRPD”.
This is the largest and most inclusive event on inclusion in Germany. The event supports the UN Convention on Rights of Persons with Disabilities which has been incorporated as a priority in Germany’s National Action Plan. Representative from three of DAIL’s Supported Employment provider partners will be in attendance at this event: University of Vermont, Lamoille County Mental Health Services, and Upper Valley Services.
International Award for Innovative Policies on Employment, Work, and Vocational Education
On February 23, 2017, the Vermont Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living (DAIL) and its partner agencies were recognized by the Zero Project at its 2017 conference held at the United Nations in Vienna, Austria. Vermont received the “Innovative Policy 2017 on Employment, Work, and Vocational Education” award for its Supported Employment Program for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities. This award recognizes countries, governments, and organizations that incorporate innovative practices into their human services through sustained policies.
Op-ed: Vermont Setting the Standard for Supported Employment
An article about Supported Employment, written by Jennie Masterson, BA, QDDP
Press Release
Vermont Digger Article