Henry County Board of DD works with local businesses and agencies to help families and individuals discover opportunities and navigate the path to employment.
Our agency and vocational service providers assist job seekers throughout every step of the process, so each person can develop the necessary skills to become a valued employee.
Henry County Board of DD is committed to the success of each person we serve. We believe employment works for people with developmental disabilities and it benefits our community.
Along with support and funding, we help find solutions to potential barriers such as the job application process, transportation, accessibility, and accommodations to help people work in the community. When businesses hire people with disabilities, they gain dependable, engaged, highly motivated and productive employees who are capable in a wide range of jobs. Our agency and partners have helped individuals secure jobs in retail, food service, manufacturing, and a variety of other industries.
Everyone has their own story. Employment can be a part of your story. The path to employment is different for everyone, which is a good thing because we are all unique with different interests, strengths, and skills.
Everyone deserves to be part of our community. Being part of the workforce is a huge part of becoming part of the local and global community. Working allows us to find friends, go shopping, and have fun. We work with several organizations and providers to help pair work with individuals who have disabilities.
Employment First is shifting expectations to provide the basis for a cultural transformation. They believe that every person has abilities, skills, and talents to enrich the community and the people around us. The Employment First program is working towards helping every working-age adult with developmental disabilities have the opportunity to explore their career options and seek jobs that fit their skills and interests.
They are doing this by shifting expectations and helping young people with developmental disabilities learn about employment options and planning during their school years. They believe adults with developmental disabilities should have support teams who assist in learning more about how abilities and interests can match opportunities in the workplace.
Why work?
Meaningful work has significant benefits for all working age adults, including people with disabilities. People with disabilities have the right to make informed decisions about where they work, and to have opportunities to obtain community jobs that result in greater earnings, better benefits, improved health, and enhanced quality of life.
In addition, meaningful employment offers individuals with disabilities the opportunity to bolster self-esteem, expand their network of natural supports, make friends, and demonstrate their abilities in a public setting. People with disabilities can contribute to the diversity of our workforce and enrichment of our community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to my Benefits?
Many people are concerned about losing benefits if they work. People are better off financially working than not working. We can explain how employment and benefits work together. There is nothing to fear!!!!
How can technology help me in my job placement?
Today, there seems to be no limit with what technology can do to assist us in our jobs. Whether it is equipment, applications, or specialized training, we can look at what is needed to help you be successful in employment.
What options are there for Youth under the age of 18?
You can begin your employment story at age 14. There are summer programs to assist you in exploring careers and learning work skills. The Summer Youth Career Exploration Program is a three-week program where you go to local businesses to learn about different careers and the education/training needed for those careers. The Summer Youth Work Experience Program is a five-week program where you will work at a local business earning minimum wage and learning valuable work skills. These programs are funded through Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities.
Who will help me with employment services and finding a job?
There are employment providers who are trained to provide quality employment services. The Employment Manager will speak with you regarding the employment providers, and you get to choose who you want to work with.