Community Conversations on Integrated Employment: Examining Individualization, Influential Factors, and Impact. (March 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bumble, Jennifer L.; Carter, Erik W.; McMillan, Elise; Manikas, Alexandra S.; Bethune, Lauren K.
• Other Names: Carter Erik W. guest-editor.; Bumble Jennifer L. guest-editor.
• Is Part Of: Journal of disability policy studies. Volume 28:Number 4(2018:Mar.)
• Page Start: 229
• Page End: 243
• Publication Date: 2018-03
• Subjects: competitive employment -- transition -- systems change -- adolescents; People with disabilities -- Government policy -- Periodicals; People with disabilities -- Services for -- Periodicals; People with disabilities -- Government policy -- United States -- Periodicals; People with disabilities -- Services for -- United States -- Periodicals; 362.4097305
• DOI: 10.1177/1044207317739401
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1044-2073

Abstract

Although "community conversations" are a promising approach to address employment outcomes for young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs), little research has addressed how these events are tailored to address the unique needs, assets, and resources of communities. Through in-depth interviews, organizers from seven diverse communities addressed their motivations for involvement, their pathways of personalization, and the factors contributing to the success of the events. Collectively, attendees generated more than 2, 000 strategies to expand integrated employment locally, falling across six primary areas. Attendees considered these events to be a good investment of their time; however, they reported that additional action, education, and partnerships were needed in their communities. Following the events, attendees reported taking a variety of follow-up actions including sharing information, developing new relationships, talking with neighbors, and educating employers. We offer implications for policy, practice, and research aimed at expanding integrated employment for young people with disabilities.