Supported Employment services in Oregon are designed to help individuals with I/DD explore career options, gain job skills, and succeed in competitive, community-based employment. The initiative includes resources for individuals, families, providers, and employers, and emphasizes the value of diverse workplaces. Through partnerships with Vocational Rehabilitation, the Oregon Department of Education, and other agencies, DHS offers tools like the Career Development Plan and Employment Outcomes System to guide self-advocates through every step of their employment journey.

Families can use this toolkit to learn how schools, vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies, and community partners work together to support employment goals. It outlines best practices for transition planning, highlights the importance of early work experiences, and explains how to build a coordinated support network. The CIE Toolkit empowers families to advocate for inclusive employment opportunities and helps them become informed partners in their child’s journey toward independence and career success.

Presented by the Oregon Department of Human Services, this webinar explores how Summer Work Experience Programs help young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities gain valuable work skills, build confidence, and prepare for future employment. The session includes details on how to apply, what types of jobs are available, and how these experiences fit into broader career development planning. It’s a practical resource for families seeking early employment opportunities for youth transitioning out of school.