WWW.NYMAKESWORKPAY.ORG March 2010 2010 KEY IMPLEMENTATION ACTIVITIES -Utilize Customized Employment and Supported Employment models to increase employment outcomes -Continue to support demonstra­tion sites while expanding in other regions to develop and sustain customized employ­ment practices -State agencies implement a redi­rection of resources to sup­port integrated employment outcomes -Individuals with disabilities served by one-stops gain greater access to employ­ment opportunities through strengthening role and effectiveness of DPN -Create self help guides to provide WIIN network members tools they can use when responding to FAQ’s of beneficiaries negotiating the path to employment -Develop training materials for consumers, families and ser­vice providers to make better decisions regarding peer sup­ports for employment -Build EN capacity through train­ing and systems throughout NYS PARTNERS MISCC EC – Most Integrated Settings Coordinating Council Employment Committee VESID – Office of Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities OMRDD – Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities OMH – Office of Mental Health OASAS – Office on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services VA – Division of Veterans Affairs CBVH – Commission for the Blind and Visually Handicapped DOL – Department of Labor DOH – Department of Health OTDA – Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance ABSTRACT: Partnership Building ISSUE Fragmentation, overlap and difficulties in accessing employment services and supports prevent many New Yorkers with disabilities from obtaining job training and employment services they want and need. GOAL #2 Build partnerships among employment stakeholders to align disability services, workforce and economic development efforts. RATIONALE Navigating the employment systems in New York State is a challenge. Beneficiaries who experience multiple barriers to employment may find it difficult to know which providers offer what services, which systems support employment or even what their options are. Building upon existing partnerships with state agencies, peer run organizations, and other disability service providers, outcomes expected to be achieved this year under goal two include the following: • Improve opportunities for people with disabilities to successfully compete for and obtain state and local government jobs using best and promising practices • Increase beneficiary ability to make informed employment choices utilizing customized employment approaches • Ensure continuous learning exchange and employment programs quality improvement • Improve use of peer support model to encourage employment and economic empowerment • Develop and pilot test strategies to improve work and self-sufficiency outcomes for traditionally underserved groups • Utilize One Stop services and local DPN’s to navigate system • Increase universe of Employment Networks available throughout NYS STATUS Replication and expansion of customized and entrepreneurial projects are underway and will include underserved populations in new regions across the state. Follow up from 2009 learning communities is underway as well as collaborations with various disability service providers. EN Forums and community of practice will be established. For more information call the toll free Technical Assistance number: 1-888-224-3272 VOICE, 1-877-671-6844 TDD or visit http://www.NYMakesWorkPay.org. WWW.NYMAKESWORKPAY.ORG