Toward a National Agenda for Supported Employment

Abstract

Community-based supported employment programs, as an alternative to traditional facility-based day programs, have changed the nature of vocational services for adults with mental retardation. Numerous demonstrations over the past two decades have unequivocally documented the employment potential of people with mental retardation. Despite these accomplishments, problems persist that may threaten the ultimate effectiveness of the program. In this article a national agenda for supported employment is delineated. Emphasis is placed on expanding the number of individuals in supported employment, promoting consumer choice, implementing the Americans with Disabilities Act, converting segregated day programs, and expanding the number of qualified personnel.