Independent living and employment services: Equal paths to community integration

Abstract

For many persons with significant disability, the availability of Personal Assistance Services (PAS) is the most critical factor for determining whether an individual lives in an institution or in the community. Unfortunately, public policy has been slow to offer programs that encourage work for persons with significant disabilities who need PAS. During the past two decades, however, public policy changes enable people with even the most significant needs to be employed without fear of losing all of their social supports. This paper describes the recent Public Laws and public policy initiatives that support opportunities for individuals with significant disabilities. It provides numerous examples of options for Centers for Independent Living to participate in the Employment Networks being developed in response to the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999. Finally, it describes ways to empower consumers to utilize the recent laws and public policy initiatives to take full advantage of the improved opportunity for them to live and work in the community.