The DOL’s Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) works with the agency to provide a comprehensive national policy regarding employment of people with disabilities. ODEP has a number of initiatives and collaborative programs aimed at increasing employment opportunities for Americans with disabilities. 

Find out more about ODEP’s initiatives and the fascinating story of ODEP head, Assistant Secretary Kathy Martinez in the detailed interview in the summer edition of The Public Manager.

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As part of their ongoing efforts to get the word out, ODEP has a blog that details current initiatives and highlights programs and information that work to improve access to employment for people with disabilities. ODEP knows that a crucial piece of the puzzle is getting potential employers past any real or, in many cases, perceived hurdles toward hiring of people who are disabled. 

A recent blog post describes an initiative called Employment First in more detail:

“…\[T\]he Labor Department’s Office of Disability Employment Policy, stands ready to help states, businesses, and providers improve access to integrated employment and other community-based supports as the preferred option for youth and adults with significant disabilities.

That is the impetus of Employment First, a movement rooted in the belief that public financing should support integrated employment as a priority. Because ODEP understands the value of integrated employment, we are promoting it nationwide as a first option for any individual who chooses it. And we recognize that turning this priority into a reality requires strong alignment of policies, practices, and funding across various state agencies.”

To read the full blog, click here.