bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using a problem-solving approach to teach social skills to workers	with brain injuries in supported employment settings
Authors: Mark F. O'Reilly  , Giulio E. Lancioni  , Niamh O'Kane
Published: November 2024

We examined the effectiveness of a problem-solving intervention to teach social skills to two workers with traumatic brain injuries. Both individuals demonstrated deficits in social skills which jeopardized their current job placements. Two of the most problematic social skills were selected for intervention with each participant. The intervention was evaluated using a multiple baseline design across social skills for each of the participants. All targeted social skills increased in the training setting when the intervention was implemented. The social skills also generalized to the work sites. Additionally, participants continued to perform the targeted social skills in the training setting for up to six weeks following the removal of the intervention.
The history and development of a national homeownership	initiative
Authors: Jay Klein
Published: November 2024

This article describes the history of a movement begun in the early 1990s that has made it possible for hundreds of people with disabilities throughout the United States to become homeowners. The article begins by highlighting the relevant funding sources, legislation, and policies that have influenced opportunities for people with disabilities to become homeowners. It concludes with a discussion of the accomplishments and impact of the homeownership initiative nationwide.
Homeownership for individuals with disabilities: Defining	professional knowledge, roles and responsibilities
Authors: Nancy Robertson  , Derrick Desfrene
Published: November 2024

Although homeownership opportunities for individuals with disabilities are expanding nationally, they are still the exception rather than the rule. One reason for this is a limited exploration of the knowledge, roles, and responsibilities needed by professionals. The purpose of this article is to: 1) describe a person-centered approach for supporting individuals with disabilities in becoming homeowners; and 2) use suggestions and strategies identified by professionals to define the knowledge, roles, and responsibilities needed by other professionals.
Enhancing employment outcomes through job accommodation and	assistive technology resources and services
Authors: Langton Anthony J. , Ramseur Hunter
Published: November 2024

Job accommodation strategies can effectively open up opportunities for persons with disabilities. Assistive technology should be considered as one of the most important of these strategies to successfully accommodate job tasks. There are some fundamental steps to consider when embarking on the use of assistive technology. A well-developed technology assessment process can be instrumental in assuring that each step is considered and properly carried out. This process is most effective when the consumer is at the focal point of the assessment that includes a thorough job analysis of the essential functions of the job as well as an understanding of the functional capacities of the potential employee. Opportunities often exist for low cost, off-the-shelf products which helps to increase the availability of needed resources, lower overall costs, and improve maintenance, repair and replacement options.
Increasing the employment of people with disabilities through the	Business Leadership Network
Authors: Lieshout Roger Van
Published: November 2024

This paper will present an national strategy for addressing the needs of employer-customers and job seekers with recruitment, hiring, and advancement of people with disabilities in the business sector. This national strategy known as the Business Leadership Network, or BLN, was first developed in 1994 in conjunction with the United States Department of Labor, Office of Disability and Employment Policy (formerly known as the President's Committee on Employments of People with Disabilities). A BLN is an employer-lead coalition that works along side with the rehabilitation community, people with disabilities, and employment support programs to promote the employment of people with disabilities as a talented, motivated source of untapped labor.
Telecommuting: Meeting the needs of businesses and employees with	disabilities
Authors: Anderson Jane , Bricout John C. , West Michael D.
Published: November 2024

This article describes the growth of telecommuting as an employment alternative and its application for employees with disabilities. Information is provided that can be used to answer employers' concerns about the use of telecommuting and specifically with employees with disabilities. A research agenda is proposed to examine the best use of telecommuting for meeting the needs of employees with disabilities.
Using presentation portfolios for effective job representation of	individuals with disabilities
Authors: Mast Melinda , Sweeney Joan , West Michael
Published: November 2024

This paper describes the development and field-testing of a presentation portfolio, a job development tool for individuals with disabilities. The portfolio was developed with significant input from the vocational rehabilitation field and employers. Findings indicate that the portfolio could be an effective tool for job development.
Getting a job, sustaining a job, and losing a job for individuals	with mental retardation
Authors: Moran Robert R. , McDermott Suzanne , Butkus Stanley
Published: November 2024

The employment rate for 7,750 individuals with mental retardation served by the South Carolina network of Disability and Special Needs local Boards was 16.9% for these individuals was 28%; individuals employed during 1996 and 1997 had a job in the subsequent year. Restaurant hostess/cashier, retail, and food preparation had the lowest rates of hiring and the lowest rates of loss for all types of employment. The job categories with the largest number of individuals with MR were janitor/laundry/cleaning followed by dishwasher/bus-person. Although decisions about employment should be made based on individual abilities, goals and desires, policymakers can adopt a strategy for monitoring the rate of obtaining new jobs and job loss to evaluate the performance of local employment support providers.
Self-employment, choice and self-determination
Authors: Callahan Michael , Shumpert Norciva , Mast Melinda
Published: November 2024

In 1993 the Rehabilitation Services Administration funded a nation-wide demonstration on ways to improve consumer choice within vocational rehabilitation services. Seven sites were selected to implement choice-based services. An unanticipated outcome of the demonstration was that approximately 13% self-employment over regular employment. This percentage not only was significantly greater than that in traditional rehabilitation services, it was larger than the percentage of persons who are self-employed in the general population. This article examines the relationship of self-employment to the emerging self-determination movement for persons with disabilities.
A process analysis of integrated and non-integrated approaches to	supported employment
Authors: Drake Robert E. , Becker Deborah R. , Bond Gary R. , Mueser Kim T.
Published: November 2024

Objective: For many years, vocational and clinical services for persons with severe mental illness have been separated (i.e., non-integrated) in the United States. Recent research on supported employment shows, however, that combined vocational and clinical services within the same team (i.e., integrated services) produce higher rates of competitive employment than non-integrated services.

Design: To understand the advantages of integrating vocational and clinical services, the authors examined quantitative process data, ethnographic findings, and qualitative interview data from practitioners in three independent studies of supported employment.

Results: Integrated services offer four consistent advantages over non-integrated services: (1) more effective engagement and retention, (2) better communication, (3) opportunities for clinicians to understand and focus on employment, and (4) incorporation of clinical information into vocational plans and services.

Conclusions: Combining clinical and vocational services within multidisciplinary teams is consistent with the general movement toward developing integrated systems of care. Integrated services are more effective than parallel services because clinicians rather than clients assume the burden of coordination, consistency, and coherence.
Being an effective workplace Personal Assistant
Authors: Barrett John Christopher
Published: November 2024

This article will discuss the importance of workplace personal assistants and how they can best support employees with significant disabilities in meaningful careers. The author will share insights from his experience supporting an employee with a significant disability in a variety of professional environments. Many best practices and attributes of an effective workplace personal assistant will be described. Providing workplace personal assistance can be both a valuable support to the employee with a disability and a meaningful career for those who wish to provide this valuable service.
Maximizing employee effectiveness through use of Personal	Assistance Services at the workplace
Authors: Barcus J. Michael , Targett Pamela
Published: November 2024

It comes as no surprise to people with significant disabilities that getting and keeping a job can be a challenge. For some people with physical, sensory, or cognitive disabilities that limit their ability to function, day to day life often requires them to seek assistance with routine activities such as working, dressing, going to the bathroom, preparing meals, and other activities that are easily performed by people without disabilities. Personal Assistance Services, which are modifications of equipment or alterations of the workplace, often make it possible for a qualified person with a disability to do the same job as everyone else but in a slightly different way. The role and function of PAS in the workplace provides an important tool to employers for increasing access to a major labor pool – individuals with significant disabilities. A chief business benefit will be dedicated, dependable and productive employees.
Workplace personal assistance service and assistive	technology
Authors: Strobel Wendy , McDonough Jennifer Todd
Published: November 2024

This paper examines how assistive technology can be utilized in conjunction with personal assistance services in the workplace. Through case examples, the authors show how assistive technology can assist an individual with a disability to become more independent and productive in the workplace. The impact of disability and environment on assistive technology is discussed. In addition, the authors review factors influencing the selection and utilization of assistive technology at the workplace and demonstrate how the use of assistive technology can lessen an individual's dependence on a personal assistant while at work.
Independent living and employment services: Equal paths to	community integration
Authors: Webb Susan
Published: November 2024

For many persons with significant disability, the availability of Personal Assistance Services (PAS) is the most critical factor for determining whether an individual lives in an institution or in the community. Unfortunately, public policy has been slow to offer programs that encourage work for persons with significant disabilities who need PAS. During the past two decades, however, public policy changes enable people with even the most significant needs to be employed without fear of losing all of their social supports. This paper describes the recent Public Laws and public policy initiatives that support opportunities for individuals with significant disabilities. It provides numerous examples of options for Centers for Independent Living to participate in the Employment Networks being developed in response to the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999. Finally, it describes ways to empower consumers to utilize the recent laws and public policy initiatives to take full advantage of the improved opportunity for them to live and work in the community.
Meeting the vocational support needs of individuals with Asperger	Syndrome and other autism spectrum disabilities
Authors: Müller Eve , Schuler Adriana , Burton Barbara A. , Yates Gregory B.
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this pilot study was to seek consumer perspectives on strategies for improving vocational placement and job retention services for individuals with Asperger Syndrome and other autism spectrum disabilities (ASDs). For this purpose, 18 adults with ASDs were individually interviewed about their experiences within the workplace. Participants were asked to (a) describe positive and negative aspects of their vocational experiences, (b) identify major obstacles to successful employment, and (c) recommend appropriate vocational supports to be provided by vocational rehabilitation counselors, employers and co-workers. Qualitative analyses of the interview transcripts revealed a number of common experiences and concerns which suggest the needs of individuals with ASDs should be recognized as different from others with more generalized developmental disabilities and/or mental retardation.
Supported employment: Disparities in vocational rehabilitation	outcomes, expenditures and service time for persons with traumatic brain	injury
Authors: Gamble David , Moore Corey L.
Published: November 2024

This study examined differences in closure status, occupational placements, weekly earnings, hours worked each week, expenditures, and time in rehabilitation for persons with traumatic brain injury (TBI) based on the provision of supported employment services. Participant race, education level, age, marital status, gender, prior work experience, and disability severity were controlled for all dependent variables but occupational placements. Participants were 1,073 public vocational rehabilitation clients with TBI whose cases were closed in the Southeastern United States. Seventy eight participants received supported employment services during the vocational rehabilitation process. Significant differences were found in closure status when comparing consumers who received supported employment services to those who did not. Most competitively employed participants in both groups were working in miscellaneous occupations at case closure. For competitively employed consumers, significant differences were found in weekly earnings, hours worked per week, and expenditures when comparing the two groups.
Locus of control and its relationship with vocational	rehabilitation of unemployed sick leaves in Sweden
Authors: Millet Patrick , Sandberg Karl W.
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of locus of control on vocational rehabilitation. To do so, 143 persons on sickness leave were followed for 16 months during and after participation in a vocational rehabilitation program, where the psychological construct, locus of control, was used as a main variable to investigate the success of the program. The findings of the study suggest that the construct locus of control plays an important role in the outcomes of vocational rehabilitation. Perceived health status, the type of rehabilitation program, the accumulated duration of both sick leave and unemployment at the start of rehabilitation and whether dwelling in an urban or a rural area are other factors that also influence. The outcomes development of methods and models that give the individual a greater sense of power and control during the rehabilitating process is indicated, therefore, to increase the individual's internal locus of control. Rehabilitation programs should also use workplace training as often as is possible, as this also increases the likelihood of success.
Progression of disability benefits: A perspective on multiple	sclerosis
Authors: Fraser Robert T. , McMahon Brian , Danczyk-Hawley Carolyn
Published: November 2024

This article documents the Progression of Disability Benefits (PODB) for a sample of 201 employees with multiple sclerosis (MS) vs. a large sample of employees with diverse disabilities (n = 77,096) and another neurology group employee sample with epilepsy (n = 59). Among the most interesting findings is the dramatic movement for the MS sample to Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) – 35.3% for the MS sample vs. 3.8% for the general disability sample and 8.5% forthe epilepsy sample. Implications of these findings are discussed for better serving the needs of employees with MS onset.
Profile of centers for independent living based on the National	CIL Management Database
Authors: Tomita Machiko R. , Moffat Maureen , Usiak Douglas J. , Moffat John
Published: November 2024

In order to create the first comprehensive National CIL Management Database of existing CIL programs, services, management structures and funding resources, data from 255 CILs was collected through mailed surveys. The total revenue of this industry was over $218.5 million, employing over 4,800 people and offering services and programs to more than 188,000 people with disabilities. A developmental pattern was identified which was similar to other organizations. Further studies were encouraged.
Centers for independent living and transition-age youth:	Empowerment and self-determination
Authors: Wehmeyer Michael L. , Gragoudas Stelios
Published: November 2024

A primary function of centers for independent living is to empower individuals with disabilities and to support greater independence. These functions overlap with the purpose of transition planning for youth with disabilities, and it is increasingly evident that CILs can play an important role in such transition services. This article discusses the potential role of CILs in transition services for youth with disabilities, particularly in promoting self-determination, and provides an example of a program that CILs could replicate to achieve such outcomes.
Enhancement of the Working Alliance: A training program to align	counselor and consumer expectations
Authors: Shaw Linda R. , McMahon Brian T. , Chan Fong , Hannold Elizabeth
Published: November 2024

Working Alliance has been described as a collaborative process characterized by shared goals, tasks and attachment bonds The development of a strong working Alliance is desirable in a rehabilitation system that embraces full and meaningful involvement from consumers. It has been suggested that the Working Alliance is dependent upon four factors that include congruence between counselor and consumer expectancies regarding counseling. This article describes a training protocol to help counselors develop awareness and specific skills aimed at consumers achieving greater congruence in expectations early in the rehabilitation counseling process. The protocol utilizes both didactic and experiential instruction and includes values clarification activities, use of the Expectations About Rehabilitation Counseling (EARC) Scale, and a conflict resolution approach to expectation convergence. Training protocols, materials, and processes are presented along with discussion regarding the impact of the training protocol on participating counselors.
Supported employment of subjects with Mental Retardation in Pavia	province
Authors: Verri Annapia , Kaltcheva Dimitrina , Vallero Emanuela , Moglia Arrigo , Fea Fabrizio
Published: November 2024

The purpose of the present article is to evaluate the relationship of selected characteristics of supported employment with different jobs and specific client abilities in Italy. A specific focus of this project was on looking at improving the quality of life, and analyzing the relationship among job characteristics, conditions, cognitive capacities, working abilities, autonomy, and neuropsychological characteristics. Statistical analysis demonstrated that working abilities were lower than the other abilities measured on the Adaptive Behavior Inventory.
Influence of least restrictive environment and community based	training on integrated employment outcomes for transitioning students with	severe disabilities
Authors: White Janis , Weiner Jan S.
Published: November 2024

Least restrictive environment and community-based training that includes on the job instruction, were correlated with integrated employment outcomes for 104 transitioning students with severe disabilities. The participants of this three-year study included students with severe disabilities in the Orange County, California, public school system that exited school at 21 or 22 years of age. The variables that predicted successful integrated employment at the time of transition (a paid job with non-disabled co-workers at graduation) were: duration of community-based training (CBT) that included on-the-job training, and age appropriate physical integration with non-disabled peers. Mental ability as measured by intelligence quotient (I.Q.), behavior problems, physical disability and participant demographics did not correlate with integrated employment outcome. Transitioning students in integrated age appropriate school settings, receiving CBT and on-the-job training demonstrated a 69.2% integrated employment rate post-graduation.
Enhancing vocational rehabilitation counselors' substance abuse	screening and brief intervention practices
Authors: Christensen Margaret H. , Boisse Norman , Sanchez William , Friedmann Peter D.
Published: November 2024

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine if a one-day practice oriented workshop on substance abuse screening, assessment, and brief intervention (SBI) would improve vocational rehabilitation (VR) counselors' SBI knowledge and practices.

Design: VR counselors (n = 82) attended a one-day training workshop on SBI. Knowledge and practices were measured before and after the program and four months later. Participants also identified barriers to substance abuse in their practices before the workshop.

Results: Knowledge test scores improved immediately after the program, and remained higher than pre-test scores four-months later (p = 0.000). Before the workshop, counselors reported effective practices in all areas of SA probed, except screening. Four months later, improvements in the use of screening tools were incremental but highly significant (p = 0.001). The two most frequently identified barriers were (1) clients' not keeping referral appointments and (2) time to devote to substance abuse issues with clients.

Conclusions: A one day continuing education training workshop on SBI improved both VR counselor knowledge and reported practice (use of formal SA screen) at four months. The implications of these findings are that VR clients might benefit from the early recognition of at risk use to pre-empt the development of greater problems around substance abuse. While this study did not measure outcomes at the client level, it justifies further investigations of both the routinization of VR counselor substance abuse brief intervention efforts (SBI) and the ultimate outcomes on clients over a much wider time frame.
Employer satisfaction, job-match and future hiring intentions for	employees with a disability
Authors: Smith Kaye , Webber Lynne , Graffam Joe , Wilson Carlene
Published: November 2024

This paper is based on survey responses from 656 employers who used disability employment services to employ someone with a disability. Relationships between employer satisfaction and employer perceptions of job-match and future hiring intentions toward people who have a disability are outlined and discussed. Employers' perceptions of the job-match process were found to be an important determinant of their perceptions of work performance and employer satisfaction. Comparative ratings on employer satisfaction for employees with and without a disability were seen as an important indicator of future hiring intentions toward people with a disability. Findings reported in this paper provide important information on which to base strategies for improving future employment outcomes for people who have a disability.
An analysis of instructional accommodations and assistive	technologies used by postsecondary graduates with disabilities
Authors: Sharpe Michael N. , Johnson David R. , Izzo Margo , Murray Alexa
Published: November 2024

The objective of this study was to examine the range of instructional accommodations and assistive technologies used by postsecondary graduates with disabilities. Based on the rationale that such information can provide important information regarding "inputs" of a measured outcome, in this case, successful graduation from a postsecondary institution, the findings of this study will help us to better understand the nature of supports that may facilitate persistence among postsecondary students with disabilities. Using a structured-interview approach, postsecondary graduates (N = 139) were asked to identify instructional accommodations and assistive technologies provided to them in secondary and postsecondary settings. Findings of this study show that generally, instructional accommodations and assistive technologies are provided at much higher rates at the postsecondary level. With regard to users of assistive technology, the majority of graduates indicated that they accessed and learned to use the technology by themselves or with the assistance of a family member. Study findings also suggest that graduates were generally satisfied with the types of instructional accommodations and assistive technology supports provided to them at the postsecondary level.
Advantages of developing survey constructs when comparing	educational supports offered to students with disabilities in postsecondary	education
Authors: Christ Thomas W. , Stodden Robert
Published: November 2024

Legislation [1,8] and a competitive labor market have resulted in a significant increase in the number of students with disabilities enrolled in postsecondary education [17]. Nevertheless, the provision of supports and accommodations is primarily limited by financial constraints. With financial supports in decline at postsecondary institutions, it is critical to determine the factors that contribute to services that are effective, appropriate, and proven to foster success. Unfortunately, few studies have done this. Further, it is unknown if supports commonly utilized in postsecondary programs are effective. This study utilized exploratory factor analysis of repeatedly administered surveys (1999–2001) to determine: (a) if the survey items grouped into meaningful constructs that represent services provided to students with disabilities, (b) if the constructs exhibited a significant difference between two and four-year institutions, and (c) if the constructs changed over time. The analysis revealed that the 34 survey items grouped well into four constructs titled Strategies, Assistive Technology, Accommodations, and Vocation/Work Support. Some of the constructs exhibited significant differences between two-year and four-year institutions and over time. Further, this analysis indicates that constructs of appropriately grouped survey items are a more reliable and efficient measure of support services than individual item analysis commonly used in survey research.
Providing effective employment supports for persons living with	HIV: The KEEP project
Authors: Escovitz Karen , Donegan Kathleen
Published: November 2024

Project KEEP, a 3-year Special Demonstration Project, was charged with identifying effective employment service strategies for people living with HIV/AIDS in Philadelphia, PA. Strategic outreach was done to ensure that participants would reflect the demographics of HIV/AIDS in urban settings. Individualized employment services, based in principles of psychosocial rehabilitation, were provided to 148 individuals. Longitudinal data were collected to track services, employment experiences, disclosure, self-reported health measures, and quality of life. This paper discusses the results of the project, giving particular attention to the strong employment outcomes and the value of "rapid-attachment", intensive support once working, and the impact of work on self-reported quality of life. Implications for service delivery as well as directions for future services research are discussed.
Supporting consumer directed employment outcomes
Authors: Brooks-Lane Nancy , Hutcheson Suzanne , Revell Grant
Published: November 2024

Nationally, participation in sheltered/segregated programs continues to exceed participation in community-integrated employment for many individuals with significant disabilities. However, a number of community rehabilitation programs have evolved from providing services and supports that maintain individuals in segregated settings to a primary, at times singular focus on providing supports to individuals in community-integrated, inclusive employment settings. This paper briefly reviews the factors influencing this evolutionary process for community rehabilitation programs. It provides detailed examples of the organizational change process with two specific community rehabilitation programs, the Cobb and Douglas Counties Community Services Boards in Georgia and HPS, Helping People Succeed, Inc. in Florida. The core mission of both programs is to support consumer directed employment outcomes. The organizational change descriptions are accompanied by stories about individuals who are now working in inclusive employment opportunities after receiving supports through these programs.
Workplace discrimination and spinal cord injury: The national EEOC	ADA research project
Authors: McMahon Brian T. , Shaw Linda R. , West Steve , Waid-Ebbs Kay
Published: November 2024

This article provides data from the National EEOC ADA Research Project comparing several aspects of employment discrimination experienced by individuals with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) to that of a group of individuals with other physical, sensory or neurological impairments (GENDIS). Compared with GENDIS, the SCI group was younger with more males and fewer minorities. The SCI group had a significantly higher proportion of resolved complaints involving Hiring, Promotion and Reinstatement and a lower proportion of issues involving Discharge, Reasonable Accommodation, Harassment, Discipline and Intimidation. Allegations of discrimination against people with SCI occurred more often in the Services and Public Administration industries, more often among small employers, and more often among employers located in the South. EEOC findings of "No Cause" in which full investigation fails to support the alleged violation are significantly less common in SCI than in GENDIS. SCI employers were more likely to accept those remedies proposed by the EEOC. Implications and recommendations regarding these findings are provided.
The future of supported employment: Don't panic!
Authors: Cimera Robert Evert
Published: November 2024

Over the past ten years, much has been written regarding supported employment's future. Many authors have claimed that supported employment is "losing momentum" or "stalling". These authors have made several recommendations designed to revitalize supported employment's growth. The present paper examines data presented by previous authors, constructs a new interpretation of supported employment's status, and proposes strategies for improving supported employment's growth.
Outcome assessment of short-term vocational training for direct	service supported employment workers
Authors: Conley Ronald W.
Published: November 2024

This note presents a method of approximating how many persons were placed on new or improved supported employment jobs after attending a training seminar on job development. Individual follow-up phone calls were completed for 50 trainees four to eight months after the training, a response rate of 82 percent. Seventy-two percent reported that the outcomes for 163 supported employees were improved in one or more ways. Although the method is based on subjective data, it is low-cost, can be implemented quickly, and focuses on measuring improvements in outcomes. We believe the method will be useful only if collected by experienced interviewers who have no stake in the results.
What predicts re-employment after job loss for individuals with	mental retardation?
Authors: Howarth Elizabeth , Mann Joshua R. , Zhou Huafeng , McDermott Suzanne , Butkus Stanley
Published: November 2024

This study analyzed longitudinal employment data collected from South Carolina disability service agencies to determine which individual and agency characteristics are predictors of re-employment for individuals with mental retardation. Reasons for job loss in this population were also explored. While 1198 individuals (72.5% who worked in 2001 remained employed in 2002, 455 workers (27.5% did not sustain employment the following year. The most frequent reasons reported for job loss in these individuals included job performance problems (28.1%, a decision to quit on the part of the employee (21.9%, health problems (10.9%), and employer lay-offs (10.9%. Only 38 percent of individuals who experienced an interruption in employment in 2002 successfully regained employment in 2003. Individual and service agency characteristics, including race, agency size, and use of a job coach, were found to be significant predictors of re-employment for these individuals.
Work intensity and variations in health and personal	characteristics of individuals with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)
Authors: Meade Michelle A. , Barrett Kirsten , Ellenbogen Phyllis S. , Jackson M. Njeri
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this study is to describe the relationship between work intensity, personal and injury-related factors and the resources typically associated with employment, including insurance, access to health care, and salary. Retrospective analysis is performed on cross-sectional data from 436 individuals between the ages of 18 and 64 years old that participated in the quantitative component of a larger project examining the needs of Virginians with SCI. No significant differences are found with regard to gender or pre-injury employment status between individuals with SCI who are not working, those employed part time (<30 hours per week), and those employed full-time >30 hours per week). Significant differences are noted between groups with regard to race, marital status, total number of medical problems, receipt of vocational services, and severity of injury. In addition, individuals who are employed either part-time or full-time are more likely to have health insurance (p=0.034) than those not working for pay. Individuals working full-time are significantly more likely to have dental insurance (p<0.001), less likely to have been unable to get needed medical care (p=0.025), and less likely to have problems with either uncontrolled spasticity (p<0.001) or chronic pain (p<0.001) in the past 12 months as compared with the other two groups. Results support the value of employment in providing access to health care and a range of other benefits for persons with a SCI. Part-time employment provided significant advantages over unemployment status however individuals who spent at least 30 hours a week in paid employment had the highest levels of resources. Our findings also suggest, though, that secondary conditions may influence the level/intensity of employment for individuals with SCI and that working part-time still provides advantages over unemployment.
Perspectives on networking, cultural values, and skills among	African American men with Spinal Cord Injury: A reconsideration of social	capital theory
Authors: Jackson M. Njeri , Meade Michelle A. , Ellenbogen Phyllis , Barrett Kirsten
Published: November 2024

Unemployment among African Americans with SCI poses a serious challenge to successful recovery and community reintegration. Recent research and public discourse about documented racial disparities in employment following injury is often laden with assumptions about the absence of "social capital," including networks of support, appropriate skills, work ethic or viable work history profile. Such assumptions inform social policy aimed at assisting the unemployed, including African Americans with SCI and are embedded in explanations for reducing the role of government or the "state" in addressing poverty and related social issues, one consequence of which has been a reduction in programs and funding for persons with disabilities. Social capital theory has also been used to justify an increased reliance on non-governmental networks and institutions (particularly faith-based) to address concerns of individuals and families struggling with employment, health care or other issues traditionally addressed by the state. The emphasis on individual initiative and cultivation of networks of support assumes the absence of both among those who are unemployed. The purpose of this paper is to describe and discuss the attitudes of African American men with SCI toward work and their perceptions of obstacles and supports in their attempts to seek and secure employment in comparison and contrast to explanations presented in "social capital" theories. Using the qualitative component of a larger project, which used mixed method design, we identify and present the perspectives of African American men with SCI. The results of this study raise questions about assumptions and policies based in social capital theories and suggest a need to reconsider and reframe explanations for unemployment and those social reintegration strategies embodied in related policies.
Project SEARCH: A demand-side model of high school	transition
Authors: Rutkowski Susie , Daston Maryellen , Van Kuiken Debra , Riehle Erin
Published: November 2024

Community work experience and coordinated transition services are recognized as key factors in successful school-to-work transitions for young people with disabilities. However, although federal law now mandates transition assistance, such services are not consistently available. Consequently, youth with disabilities often miss out on opportunities to develop the work habits, communication skills and attitudes that employers look for when making hiring decisions.

In this article we describe the Project SEARCH High School Transition Program, an employer-based intervention for high school students with significant disabilities whose main goal is competitive employment. The program combines real-life work experience with training in employability and independent living skills. Individualized placement assistance is provided as an integral part of the program. The hallmark of this demand-side model is complete immersion in the workplace. This facilitates a seamless integration of classroom instruction and on-the-job training and support that cannot be achieved with occasional workplace visits or simulated work environments. The program also demonstrates a novel collaborative approach that brings the education system, employers, and rehabilitation services together in unique ways to create a productive and comprehensive transition experience for students.
Confronting the unethical vocational counselor in forensic	practice
Authors: Smith Scott
Published: November 2024

In the scope of performing forensic work, rehabilitation counselors may discover serious weaknesses in breath of knowledge, adherence to acceptable practices, or general ethics in the work of other vocational counselors. In the field of rehabilitation counseling, ethical code standards mandate confronting a counselor directly prior to making a formal complaint. This mandatory action may be omitted or ignored because of awkwardness, fear of retaliation, or simple ignorance of this requirement. Case-in-point examples of unethical behaviors requiring confrontation are presented. Multiple legal precedence illustrations demonstrate potential need for rehabilitation counselors to be involved in the ethical resolution process. In this article, sample templates of letters are provided to aid the rehabilitation counselor to confront via written format the counselor performing unethically.
Integrated employment or sheltered workshops: Preferences of	adults with intellectual disabilities, their families, and staff
Authors: Migliore Alberto , Mank David , Grossi Teresa , Rogan Patricia
Published: November 2024

Despite national and state policies promoting integrated employment, the majority of adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities (76%) are served in facility-based programs. This article focuses on whether or not this gap between policy and practice is in part due to the lack of interest of adults with intellectual disabilities and their families for employment outside facility-based programs. Results are based on the answers given by 210 adults with intellectual disabilities in 19 sheltered workshops, their respective families or caregivers (N=185), and staff members in these workshops (N=224).

Results show that the majority of respondents would either like employment outside sheltered workshops or at least consider it an option. Moreover, the majority of respondents believe that adults with intellectual disabilities can perform outside workshops, if support is made available if needed. It is noteworthy that the preference for employment outside of workshops is not associated with the severity of the disability.

Based on these findings, this study supports the literature that advocates for system change policy promoting the employment of adults with intellectual disabilities in the general labor market.
Perspectives on benefits and costs of work from individuals with	psychiatric disabilities
Authors: Larson Jonathon E. , Barr Leah K. , Corrigan Patrick W. , Kuwabara Sachiko A. , Boyle Michael G. , Glenn Tricia L.
Published: November 2024

The goal of this qualitative study was to explore and present the perspectives of unemployed and employed individuals with psychiatric disabilities on the benefits and costs of work. The participants in this study were enrolled in a supported employment program that provided assistance in weighing the pros and cons of work, locating employment based on personal choice, and maintaining competitive jobs through unlimited support. At the 12th month of participation in the job program, 89 people completed the Stages of Change Interview for Seeking Competitive Employment. For 59 unemployed participants, results suggested 47 distinct themes that were categorized into 5 conceptual frameworks: financial, emotional, cognitive, behavioral, and interpersonal. For 30 employed participants, results suggested 25 distinct themes that were categorized into the same 5 conceptual frameworks. Implications for future research will be discussed.
Comparing employment outcomes for two vocational services:	Individual Placement and Support and non-integrated pre-vocational services in	the UK
Authors: Rinaldi Miles , Perkins Rachel
Published: November 2024

Vocational rehabilitation for people with severe mental health problems is poorly developed in the UK. Although a high proportion state they would like to work, few actually do. This paper reports a pre and post design comparing the outcomes of two vocational services in the UK: an Individual Placement and Support (IPS) service and a non-integrated pre-vocational service in addition to employment outcomes, we report fidelity ratings, service costs and findings from a survey of user experiences of mental health services two years after implementing IPS. The study shows that high fidelity IPS was significantly more effective in enabling people with severe mental health problems to gain and retain open employment. After two years of full IPS implementation a significantly greater proportion of service users reported that they received help with vocational needs with decreased unmet vocational need in comparison to the non-integrated pre-vocational service. In addition, service user expectations to gain open employment appeared to increase in comparison to the non-integrated pre-vocational service. The IPS service was 6.7 times financially more efficient in terms of delivering open employment outcomes than the non-integrated vocational service.
Vocational rehabilitation service patterns related to successful	competitive employment outcomes of persons with spinal cord injury
Authors: Marini Irmo , Lee Gloria K. , Chan Fong , Chapin Martha H. , Romero Maria G.
Published: November 2024

Objective: To examine the effect of demographic, work disincentives, and service variables on employment outcomes of persons with spinal cord injury in state vocational rehabilitation agencies.

Design: An ex post facto design, using data mining as a statistical analysis strategy.

Setting: State vocational rehabilitation agencies.

Participants: 10,901 persons with spinal cord injury whose cases were closed either as employed (54%) or not employed (46%) by state vocational rehabilitation agencies in the fiscal year 2001.

Interventions: Vocational rehabilitation services.

Main Outcome Measures: Measures of employment status, demographic characteristics, work disincentives, and provision of vocational rehabilitation services were extracted from the Rehabilitation Services Administration Case Service Report database.

Results: The chi-squared automatic interaction detector (CHAID) data mining analysis revealed that job placement services, work disincentives, and case expenditures as the most important predictors of employment outcomes. In addition, physical restoration, substantial counseling, and assistive technology services all led to positive employment outcomes. Importantly, the CHAID analysis segmented the sample into 45 mutually exclusive homogeneous end groups, with a wide range of employment outcomes. The CHAID analysis indicated that demographic variables interacted with rehabilitation services to affect employment outcomes.

Conclusions: The results confirmed substantial counseling, assistive technology, and job placement and support services are important to the return-to-work success of persons with SCI.
Public/private partnerships and employment of people with	disabilities: Preliminary evidence from a pilot project
Authors: Wehman Paul , Brooke Valerie , Green Howard , Hewett Millie , Tipton Maggie
Published: November 2024

While many people with disabilities and employment service organizations struggle to find jobs and develop strong relationships with businesses, supplemental staffing companies are becoming an important resource for linking qualified applicants with disabilities to competitive employment careers. Yet, there exists a huge disconnect between supplemental staffing companies recruiting qualified applicants to fill client-employer work orders, people with disabilities who are seeking employment, professionals with state rehabilitation agencies and community rehabilitation programs (CRP's) who assist them with their job searches. This article reports on two public/private demonstration projects in Virginia, primarily serving individuals with developmental disabilities. One demonstration project was conducted in an urban setting working exclusively with MANPOWER with the second demonstration site occurring in a rural area with Kelly Services and MANPOWER. The two demonstrations give promise for a public/private collaboration that could increase the employment of people with disabilities.
Building self-confidence and future career success through a	pre-college transition program for individuals with disabilities
Authors: Rothman Terri , Maldonado José M. , Rothman Harvey
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this study was to evaluate a pre-college transition program for students with disabilities in upstate New York. Survey data indicated that participants who had attended between 1999 and 2006 were either currently enrolled in college or working full time. Participants valued information about self-advocacy and understanding their rights protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) legislation, aspects also perceived as important for career success. Participants also valued the following: gaining a better understanding of their own disabilities and learning about others' disabilities. The greatest aspects of the program included the formation of new relationships and understanding the reality of college life. Implications for high school and college counselors are discussed.