Supported Employment in Arizona 


1 Program Definition and Services 

Supported Employment in Arizona is defined as a program that provides assistance to individuals with disabilities to obtain and maintain competitive, integrated employment. Services include: 

  • Job exploration and development 
  • On-the-job training and coaching 
  • Ongoing support to maintain employment 
  • Assistance with job applications and interviews 
  • Workplace accommodations 

 

2. Regulations 

The program is governed by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). 

 

3. Licensing or Certification

No specific licensing or certification requirements are mentioned for providers of Supported Employment services in Arizona. 

 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES), specifically the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) and the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), is responsible for overseeing Supported Employment services. 

 

5. Application Process 

The application process is not explicitly detailed. However, individuals can access services through their Support Coordinator and Employment Services Specialist at DDD. 

 

6. Required Documentation 

While specific documentation requirements are not listed, individuals may need to provide: 

  • Proof of disability 
  • Documentation of eligibility for DDD or RSA services 
  • Employment history and goals 

 

7. Timeline for Approval 

There is no specific information about the timeline for approval of Supported Employment services. 

 

8. Pre-Application Process 

There is no explicit mention of a pre-application process. 

 

9. Pre-Application Training 

While specific pre-application training is not mentioned, various training programs are available as part of Supported Employment services, including job exploration counseling and work-based learning experiences. 

 

10. Additional Notes 

  • Supported Employment services can be provided through both the Division of Developmental Disabilities and the Vocational Rehabilitation Program. 
  • Services are tailored to individual needs and can include individual, or group supported employment. 
  • Providers like Goodwill Industries of Southern Arizona offer Group Supported Employment programs in integrated community settings 
  • The goal is to help individuals transition into competitive integrated employment or self-employment 
  • Supported Employment services are typically provided at no cost to eligible individuals with Title XIX or Non-Title XIX benefits 
  • Benefits counseling is available to clarify how employment may impact Social Security or Medicaid benefits. 

 

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