In this interactive session, we will talk about what Employment First is, why it is so important, and what we (as professionals) can be doing to better support individuals wanting to explore & pursue employment matching their interests and maximizing their capabilities. Input from the audience will be highly encouraged.
Learning Objectives
Participants will learn about how supports have evolved for people with disabilities and the momentum for Employment First.
Participants will learn why Employment First matters to those with disabilities and the impact this has on our society.
Participants will be identify strategies they can use in their day-to-day work that can help embody Employment First beliefs, and help more people with disabilities achieve their employment goals.
Sandy Keyser, Employment First Specialist/APSE Board Member
Sandy has been working for the Division of DD since 2004. She started as a Support Coordinator, in the St. Louis region, where she worked with mostly transition-age youth & young adults. In 2012, she took the Employment First position, and has been in that position ever since. In 2013, she obtained the training required to become a Benefits Specialist. And in 2023, she joined the APSE Missouri Board. Sandy is very passionate about employment for all. And is always willing to help share knowledge that can be used to help someone succeed in achieving their desired goals.Cassidy Cullen, Community Support Specialist, Job One