Dodd Disability Connect Meeting
The October edition of Disability Connect focused on employment discussions with the community life engagement team. Key agenda items included an overview of the session goals, a discussion on employment planning using a 'flight plan' metaphor, and an introduction of the team members involved in the Community Life Engagement team and the Works for Me project. The session detailed the Employment First administrative rule, emphasizing person-centered planning to identify strengths, interests, and goals for competitive integrated employment (CIE). The benefits of work, such as learning new skills, feeling valued, building connections, accessing benefits, and achieving economic self-sufficiency, were reviewed. The definition of CIE was provided, highlighting that it involves working alongside people without disabilities for commensurate wages and opportunities. Resources like Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) and HCBS waiver services for support and job coaching were discussed. The session included a mid-flight check-in emphasizing open communication with the support crew, including SSAs and counselors, to navigate challenges.