Enhancing transition outcomes for youth with disabilities: The partnerships for youth initiative

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Muthumbi, Jane W.

Affiliations: Program Research Specialist, NYS Developmental Disabilities Planning Council, 155 Washington Ave., 2nd Fl., Albany, NY 12210, USA. Tel.: +1 518 402 3489; Fax: +1 518 402 3505; E-mail: jmuthumbi@ddpc.state.ny.us

Abstract: The Workforce Investment Act (WIA) encouraged the establishment of partnerships to address employment barriers facing individuals with disabilities and emphasized the coordination of services in order to improve the employment outcomes of these individuals. In response to WIA requirements, New York State established partnerships with local workforce investment boards, one-stop centers and their partners, school districts, employers, community and employment service providers to coordinate resources that would improve school-to-work transition and particularly employment outcomes for students with disabilities. While increased awareness and utilization of workforce development and vocational rehabilitation systems were positive outcomes of these initiatives, systemic issues in these systems are likely to undermine long-term transition outcomes of youth.

Keywords: School-to-work transition, youth with disabilities, partnership and employment

Journal: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 29, no. 2, pp. 93-103, 2008