If people with intellectual disability are to become truly self-determined, they must be allowed to express choice throughout their lives, including employment. Expectations for competitive employment tend to be low for this population, if considered at all (Citron et al., 2008). Theoretically, integrated employment options, including customized…

Existing models of supported employment (individual placement, mobile crew, enclave, and benchwork models) have limited utility in rural areas. The Black Hills Special Services Cooperative (Sturgis, South Dakota) developed an entrepreneurial model that addresses the lack of rural employers and transportation problems by creating new businesses…

Employees in rural Utah businesses were taught to provide on-the-job training to mildly disabled trainees. Over a two-year period, disabled workers taught by co-worker trainers had greater job retention and employer satisfaction; they required less time from placement specialists than disabled workers without co-worker support. (SV)

During five years of operation, the Montana Projects with Industry program assisted 65 people with severe disabilities to obtain and maintain community employment. Strategies that contribute to positive employment opportunities are described, and continuing challenges in enhancing and expanding supported employment services in rural areas are…

A survey of job developers at 11 community-based adult service facilities and 2 major public school systems in rural South Dakota revealed that delivery of supported employment services to persons with developmental disabilities is affected by the rate of unemployment, community size, and percentage of service jobs. Discusses solutions to problems…

Describes a transitional program that empowers special education students to make informed decisions about their vocational preferences and skills relative to the local job market. Focuses on self-directed assessment, job placement, development of self-management skills, long-term followup, and career development. Stresses the importance of…

Special educators from rural and remote school districts in eastern Oregon surveyed local employers and designed a school-to-work site-based work-experience program for students with disabilities in an area with limited employment resources. Components of the six-year program (grades 7-12) and the outcome of enhancing associated work skills are…