Gov. Markell announces progress through Pathways to Employment program
Governor Jack Markell announced on Tuesday that there has been significant progress in supporting young people with disabilities to help them get a a fair chance at competitive employment.
This has been made possible through the Department of Health and Social Services’ Pathways to Employment program.
According to a release from Governor Markell’s Office, “The initiative is the first of its kind in the country to support young people with disabilities as they set goals for employment or higher education, find work and learn how to manage their first paycheck.”
Officials report that through mid-September, 248 young people with disabilities ages 14-25 have enrolled in Pathways to Employment, with another 180 identified as potential candidates for the Medicaid program.
Pathways is said to help reduce the barriers to employment through such services as assistive technology, non-medical transportation, career exploration and assessment, benefits counseling, personal care and financial coaching.
Officials also say that beyond DHSS, Pathways involves support from the Department of Labor’s Division for Vocational Rehabilitation and the Department of Education.
“One of the greatest rewards for me as Governor is seeing people with disabilities get a fair shot at employment,” Governor Markell said during an event today at the Casino at Delaware Park, where one of the young people has been hired. “Hiring people with disabilities isn’t about charity; it’s about maximizing everyone’s gifts and talents. For the young Delawareans being supported through Pathways to Employment, we are breaking down more barriers and connecting them to the world of work.”
“Pathways to Employment builds on the promise of the Governor’s NGA initiative,” Secretary Landgraf said. “We know too often what separates people with disabilities from the rest of the population is financial security. Pathways helps to reinforce the changing expectations for young people with disabilities that their future is not a life of benefits, but a life of work that harnesses their talents. With the appropriate supports, young people with disabilities will make a successful transition from school to the world of work.”
In August 2016, with sponsor Sen. Nicole Poore, the Governor signed Senate Bill 221, which supports the hiring of people with disabilities by providing tax credits to Delaware employers who hire people through the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, and the tax credit will begin in 2017.
Pathways to Employment was approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in January 2015. It is administered and operated by DHSS, including its Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities, the Division of Developmental Disabilities Services, the Division of Medicaid and Medical Assistance, and the Division for the Visually Impaired.
To learn more about Pathways, including eligibility requirements, call 1-800-223-9074 or visit the DHSS website.
