You know when Iowa began its’ Employment First Initiative, the rumor quickly spread that it was all about closing sheltered workshops. The truth of the matter is, Employment First is not about closing anything. It is about ensuring that employment in the general workforce is considered first, before other more restrictive options are put on the table. It is about aligning beliefs, funding, policies and practices with this concept. Except for Vocational Rehabilitation dollars, Iowa spends much more on segregated vocational services than integrated services. Approximately 71% of Medicaid dollars go to facility based work services vs. 29% for services in the community. The Employment First Initiative believes this needs to be changed.
It is clear there are providers in Iowa who want to provide more community employment and there are Iowans working in sheltered workshops who could work in the community. But the way the current system is, that is almost impossible.
IA-APSE welcomes your comments and thoughts about Iowa’s Employment First Initiative. Feel free to leave a comment!
I hope Employment First is the catalyst to get our funding in alignment with our values. No one wants people with disabilities to live in poverty and be dependent on public benefits. We can and should do better than what we are doing now in terms of employment outcomes.
The Employment First movement is sweeping the country because of the urgent need to ensure that citizens with disabilities have access to the same quality of life as the rest of us. Working gives life meaning and the means to achieve our dreams.
I’m excited about the efforts going on in Iowa, but we need to do more and to do more we need more people on board. Talk it up. Employment First is a great way to improve the quality of life for all Iowans!
You are so right Pat! The way the system is currently set up, we almost force people with disabilities to stay in poverty.
Right Sherry! It is exciting that Iowa is involved with such an initiative! Talk it up!!
Employment comes first with others working together. Nothing about me, without me. It starts out with team work. Together Everyone Achieves More.
Good thoughts Mia, we all get farther working together!