This Employment First Video Miniseries is focused on encouraging all people with disabilities to consider employment and pursue their goals with the right support. This project has been funded by the Colorado Developmental Disabilities Council and produced by the Colorado Office of Employment First.
What is Employment First?
Employment is for everyone! Learn about Employment First and the meaning of competitive integrated employment. You have the right to work and pursue your employment goals. You have something meaningful to contribute to the workforce!
What Can Working Do For You?
Did you know that employment is a Social Determinant of Health? Work has a positive impact on so many areas of our life. Learn what work can do for you in this brief video.
Jenny’s Story
Sports Producer, Public Speaker, and Disability Advocate Jenny Siegle shares why having a career is important to her and recalls some of the most impactful experiences on her employment journey.
Casey’s Story
Education Program Manager Casey Grothus shares why he loves his job and how learning more about himself has been one of the most impactful experiences of his employment journey.
Stan’s Story
Neurodiverse teacher and business owner, Stan Baldwin, shares how he lives just like anyone else thanks to finding the right fit for his career.
Marcella’s Perspective
Marcella, mother of two adult neurodiverse children and graduate of JFK Partners’ LEND program, shares a powerful message on the importance of employment in the lives of youth.
Codi’s Perspective
Codi Mendenhall shares a youth perspective on how volunteering is preparing her for a job.
Carol’s Perspective
As a mother and active member of the neurodevelopmental disability community, Carol Phillips shares a family perspective on the role that parents play in their youth’s employment journey.
Molly’s Perspective
Molly Kirkham shares her perspective on how employment can help youth transition into adulthood and learn more about themselves.