Resource Library

In this 3.5-minute video, viewers meet Jason, a young man with a developmental disability who successfully transitioned into a community-based job with support from Oregon DHS Employment First services. The video showcases Jason’s journey, the role of job coaching, and the impact of meaningful work on his independence and confidence. It’s an uplifting resource for self-advocates and families looking for real-life examples of employment success.

This service supports individuals in developing workplace skills, independence, and social connections. Participants work as part of a crew, supported by coaches and peers, to learn tasks and engage with people both with and without disabilities. The goal is to help each person transition into integrated, individualized employment. Families can request this service through a Service Coordinator or Personal Agent.

Participants are supported by their team and a coach to increase independence and learn new responsibilities. They interact with people of all abilities, practicing communication and relationship-building. This service is accessible through a Service Coordinator or Personal Agent.

Participants receive support from their team and coach to become more independent and learn new tasks. They engage with both disabled and non-disabled individuals to build relationships and improve social interactions. This service can be requested through a Service Coordinator or Personal Agent.

Participants receive support from their team and a coach to increase independence and learn new tasks. They engage with people with and without disabilities, practicing social interactions and relationship-building. This service can be requested through a Service Coordinator or Personal Agent.

Participants are supported by their team and a coach to become more independent and learn new job tasks. They interact with people of all abilities and practice communication to build relationships. Families can access this service by contacting a Service Coordinator or Personal Agent.

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.

This resource supports self-advocates in developing workplace readiness through person-centered planning. Goals are outlined in the individual's ISP (Individual Support Plan) and achieved through hands-on experiences. For example, a participant might volunteer at a bookstore to practice customer service and phone skills. Once the goals are met, the individual is supported in transitioning to paid employment. To access this service, families can contact their Service Coordinator or Personal Agent.

This resource outlines how Employment Path Services can help self-advocates prepare for employment through volunteer work and skill-building activities. A participant may work with a specialist to gain experience in customer service, phone etiquette, and other workplace tasks. Once the individual has achieved their goals, they are supported in moving toward paid employment. Access to the program is available through a Service Coordinator or Personal Agent.

This fact sheet explains how Employment Path Services help individuals prepare for employment by building skills through real-world experiences. For instance, a person who wants a job involving customer interaction may practice handling cash and answering phones while volunteering. These services are available until the goals in the ISP are met. To request this service, families should contact their Service Coordinator or Personal Agent.

This resource supports Spanish-speaking self-advocates and their families in preparing for employment through person-centered planning. Goals are outlined in the Individual Support Plan (ISP) and achieved through practical experiences. For example, a participant may volunteer at a bookstore to build customer service and communication skills. Once goals are met, the individual is supported in transitioning to paid employment. To access this service, families can contact their Service Coordinator or Personal Agent.

This resource is designed to support Vietnamese-speaking self-advocates and their families in planning for employment. Through person-centered planning and goal setting in the ISP, participants engage in skill-building activities such as handling money and customer service. A specialist helps guide the individual through volunteer opportunities and prepares them for future paid employment. To request this service, families should contact their Service Coordinator or Personal Agent. 

This site helps self-advocates and their families understand how to build financial security through ABLE accounts. It explains eligibility, contribution limits, and qualified expenses, making it easier to plan for education, housing, and other life goals while maintaining access to essential supports. [oregonstudentaid.gov]

Self-advocates can explore topics such as assistive technology, disability rights, college and career planning, and how to speak up for their needs. PACER’s resources include interactive workshops, personal stories, and practical advice for participating in IEP meetings and transition planning. By promoting independence and inclusion, PACER empowers young people to take charge of their goals and thrive in adult life

Designed to be user-friendly and supportive, Road2Work helps self-advocates identify their interests, understand available employment supports, and take actionable steps toward meaningful work. It’s a valuable planning tool for those unsure about their career path or seeking job coaching and discovery services.

The resource offers practical insights into how disability services work in postsecondary settings, including how to request accommodations, what documentation may be needed, and how to advocate for support. It emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and preparation, helping students take an active role in planning for their future. This guide is a valuable tool for building independence and ensuring equal access to education and opportunity after high school.

This resource supports future planning by allowing self-advocates to explore how employment and wages align with their financial needs. It’s a practical tool for setting goals around work, budgeting, and independence, especially when considering transitions to adult life.

This video playlist helps self-advocates and their families navigate conversations about sexual health with clarity and confidence. Each video is captioned and designed to be inclusive, culturally sensitive, and easy to understand. The series promotes autonomy, safety, and informed decision-making—key components of a successful transition to adult life. Accompanying discussion guides are available to support deeper learning and family engagement, making this resource a valuable tool for planning and education

T-Folio offers interactive lessons on self-advocacy, career exploration, and work readiness. It aligns with IEP and vocational rehabilitation services, making it ideal for self-advocates preparing for employment or postsecondary education. The platform encourages goal-setting and personal reflection to support future success.

Families can access specialized toolkits, guides, and planning resources that address key areas of transition, including competitive integrated employment, postsecondary education, independent living, and financial planning. The Autism Society’s materials emphasize self-determination, career exploration, and soft skill development, helping families prepare their children for adult life with confidence. Whether you're navigating services, building a transition plan, or seeking peer support, the Autism Society provides a trusted foundation for lifelong success.

These resources help self-advocates deepen their understanding of autism and build skills for navigating healthcare, education, and social environments. Courses like “Foundations of Autism” promote acceptance and empower individuals to advocate for their needs in adult life.

These culturally responsive materials help Spanish-speaking families understand the transition process and access tools for self-determination. Topics include vocational training, postsecondary options, and community-based supports, making it easier to navigate life after school.

Through interactive sessions and real-world practice, participants learn about emotions, boundaries, communication, dating, personal safety, and conflict resolution. The program is delivered by trained facilitators in community settings and emphasizes experiential learning. By focusing on both friendships and romantic relationships, the program helps self-advocates gain confidence, navigate social situations, and build meaningful connections as they transition into adult life.

Self-advocates can use Washington Connection to explore and apply for services such as food assistance, medical coverage, cash support, child care, and long-term care. The platform includes tools to track application status, receive reminders, and report changes—all accessible from a mobile-friendly interface. By reducing barriers to support, Washington Connection empowers individuals with disabilities to take control of their planning and access the services they need as they transition into adult life.

DDA offers a wide range of services and supports designed to help people with developmental disabilities participate fully in their communities. Their services include: