Employment First in Action

About

Employment First is the framework that competitive integrated employment is the first option for all individuals, including those with the most severe disabilities, who receive publicly funded services. This expectation lays the foundation for Employment First efforts in Arizona that have focused on awareness, training, policies, and practice that improve competitive integrated employment outcomes. Led by a grassroots movement of stakeholders around the state, a strategic plan and Executive Order paved the way for the next steps in making Employment First a reality.

This project, funded by Arizona Department of Economic Security, Rehabilitation Services Administration, in partnership with state agencies, providers, individuals with disabilities, family members, and other stakeholders is focused on implementation strategies that promote innovation, capacity building, and systems change in alignment with Employment First policy, practice, and outcomes.