Stay Employed and Advance

Various strategies help people with disabilities to stay job-connected, remain satisfied, and look ahead at possibilities for job growth.

Natural Supports

Natural supports involve tapping into the typical resources that surround you, such as co-workers or work routines that promote inclusion and assistance. Learn more here.

Employment Networks

A Ticket-To-Work Employment Network is an organization that provides free support to Social Security beneficiaries, including on-going support after hire.

Long-Term Services and Supports

If you are on a Medicaid Developmental Disabilities or Supported Living Services waiver, you may be eligible for on-going coaching support at your job.

Advancing in the Workplace

There are a number of ways to prepare for growth in your organization or in your field in general. Here are a few to consider:

Continuing Education

Keep learning by taking advantage of courses to expand your knowledge and skill sets.

Role Expansion

Consider volunteering to take on a new job task or work project and expand your resume.

Keep Track of Your Accomplishments

Maintain a running list of achievements such as positive customer feedback and project results.

Tapping Back into Benefits Counseling

Benefits counseling services are not meant to be “point-in-time” but rather assistance you can tap back into as circumstances change. Here are examples of situations that might lead to re-engaging benefits counseling.

Moving from Part-time to Full-time

If you started a position with part-time hours but have the opportunity to move to full-time, a benefits counselor can help you understand the impact the new earnings will have on your benefits.

Considering a Promotion or New Position

If you are considering competing for a promotional opportunity or a new position with different wages, a benefits counselor can guide you on what to expect.

Considering Work Incentives

Regularly checking in with a Benefits Counselor may help you discover work incentives, or Social Security Administration employment supports, that you may qualify for — particularly if you have new disability-related expenses.

Health First Colorado Buy-In for Working Adults with Disabilities

Otherwise known as the Medicaid Buy-In, this Colorado program allows working adults with disabilities to continue receiving Medicaid even if they earn too much for regular Medicaid. Talk to a benefits counselor to learn more.

JFK Partner Logo

The Colorado Office of Employment First sits under JFK Partners, the state’s University Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, a program of the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Its creation was envisioned by Colorado Employment First Advisory Partnership (EFAP), a multi-state agency and stakeholder-led collaborative, and was made possible, in part, by funding from the Colorado Legislature and generously matched through the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) at the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE).

© 2023 Colorado Office of Employment First. All Rights Reserved.

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