Bob Lawhead

After a decade of rapid implementation and expansion throughout the United States, supported employment hit a plateau. However, concepts such as self-determination and individual budgets have recently re-invigorated supported employment.. The use of self-employment and other customized approaches also are serving to reinforce the promise of supported employment, which is that everyone has a place in the regular workforce. The focus of this session is on realizing a future characterized by state and federal-level commitment to supported employment. Included will be strategies to impact public policy, including an understanding of adequate funding and funding mechanisms for employment services and supports.