Maine's CHOICES CEO Project

Expanding Opportunities for Workers with Disabilities

Employment Practices and Opportunities

Legislative Report: Media/Outreach Campaign Strategies for Employment of Individuals with Disabilities in Maine (PDF): Report contains recommendations regarding the development and implementation of a media outreach campaign that increases awareness and promotes the employment of Maine residents with disabilities. Prepared in response to Chapter 570: “An Act to Create Employment Opportunities for People with Disabilities,” Part C. Available in Word.
Employer Practices and Attitudes: Planning Decisions Inc., a Maine research company, conducted a survey of 400 business owners in Maine and held focus groups with human resource managers and placement staff. This is the report of their findings.
Employment Opportunities for People with Developmental Disabilities (PDF): This report identifies resources, opportunities and challenges for building vocational supports that will increase employment for people with developmental disabilities. (January 2007) Available in Word.
We Want to Work: New Opportunities for People with Disabilities: In October 2005, a forum was held at the Maine State House for those interested in improving employment supports and services for workers with disabilities. In addition to photos and media coverage, notes from workgroup sessions are available for download.

Alaska Works Initiative Employer Page: A web page with resources for businesses and organizations interested in employing workers with a disability.
Creating Effective Business Partnerships: What Businesses Want Human Service Agencies to Know: A quick overview of how service agency staff can be more effective when trying to place a worker with a disability.
ForEmployers.com: A web site with resources for employers interested in hiring people with disabilities. The site is targeted to Massachusetts employers but has many generalized offerings.
The Vermont Work Incentives Initiative: This project is a partnership of VocRehabVermont and the Vermont MIG (a Medicaid Infrastructure Grant recipient like Maine's CHOICES CEO project). VocRehabVermont, the state's vocational rehabilitation agency, is well known for its excellent service and innovative programs. The site offers resources to both employers and job seekers. It also provides data about disability and services in Vermont and an effective annual report.
Working with Persons with Disabilities Guidebook: The state of Iowa created this guidebook for state supervisors and managers. This step-by-step booklet details the process of hiring and retaining employees with disabilities. Topics include: the interview process, hiring procedures, and reasonable accommodations.