What is the primary goal of the Supported Employment model in CESP?

• A. To help individuals with disabilities obtain and maintain competitive, integrated employment with ongoing supports as needed.
• B. To maximize wage subsidies for employers.
• C. To place individuals in any available job regardless of fit.
• D. To provide annual coaching only.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is to help individuals with disabilities obtain and maintain competitive, integrated employment in the community, with ongoing supports as needed. This means jobs in the open labor market that pay at prevailing wages and are with non-disabled coworkers, accompanied by tailored supports that help the person start, stay, and grow in that job. Supports can include on-site coaching, task analysis, accommodations, transportation help, and follow-up services, and they continue for as long as the person benefits, tapering as independence increases.

This isn’t about subsidies to employers, placing someone in any job without considering fit, or providing only annual coaching. The goal is sustained, meaningful work with the right supports to ensure long-term success and inclusion in the workplace.