Pathway to Employment
Overview
Is there a job in your future?
Working or volunteering can be a rewarding part of life, leading to friendships and feelings of pride and accomplishment. The Pathway to Employment gives you a look at available employment and volunteer options. In this one-year program, you can learn the skills you will need to develop to enter the workplace or volunteer. You can develop a plan for achieving competitive, integrated employment at or above the New York State minimum wage or explore unpaid or volunteer experiences. You can discover your strengths and abilities and develop the social skills needed to succeed in your desired career. Read about some people with developmental disabilities who are making a difference through their work.
Pathway to Employment
Identifying a career or vocational path
This program is available to people who are interested in competitive employment or self-employment including people who receive Day Habilitation, Pre-Vocational and Supported Employment services, as well as students leaving high school and others.
A plan for paid employment
Within 12 months, a participant will have a documented career goal; a detailed career plan used to guide their employment supports; and preparation for supported employment services. Participants will look for a job paying the state minimum wage or higher.
Eligibility
To be eligible for Pathway to Employment, an individual needs to be enrolled in the Home and Community Based Waiver (HCBS). To enroll, discuss Pathway to Employment with your Care Manager.
Get training to work
State Resources
These resources will help you start your job exploration. Click on Job Openings to find a New York State Career Center location near you, operated by the Department of Labor. Or click on Employment Services System to learn about about the Ticket to Work, for those job hunters with disabilities.