New Pa. program investing in workers with disabilities

A new program to aid Pennsylvania workers with disabilities has been launched by the Department of Labor & Industry (L&I).  

L&I created the Integrated Vocational Engagement & Support Team (InVEST) program through its Office of Vocational Rehabilitation to help individuals with disabilities secure sustainable jobs through competitive, integrated employment (CIE). According to a release, Sheetz, Inc. is the first Pennsylvania employer to commit to the new program, which leverages millions of dollars in federal funding to help transition individuals with disabilities away from subminimum wage positions to CIE.  

“Today marks a transformative moment for individuals with disabilities across Pennsylvania,” L&I Secretary Nancy Walker said in a statement. “The launch of the InVEST program represents a significant leap forward in our commitment to ensuring that every Pennsylvanian, regardless of disability, can obtain competitive, integrated employment. 

“By leveraging this $14 million federal grant, we are addressing the barriers faced by those in subminimum wage jobs and empowering them to build fulfilling careers with dignity and respect,” added Walker. 

InVEST looks to reduce the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities working in sheltered workshops, which typically pay people with disabilities subminimum wage and are often segregated from the community. 

Sheetz plans to hire up to 10 individuals annually and retain all previously hired individuals. The company said it will support these employees with job coaches who will support on-site employees, develop accommodations, and prepare employees for long-term success.  

L&I’s Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) has partnered with the Department of Human Services’ (DHS) Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) and the PA Family Network: Vision for Equality to provide peer-to-peer education, mentoring services, and systems navigation support for participants and their families. 

“DHS has long prioritized competitive integrated employment for individuals with a disability who choose to seek and maintain employment, because we know that participating in jobs that earn a minimum wage or higher and receiving opportunities for advancement is the foundation for achieving an everyday life,” said DHS Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh. “DHS looks forward to collaborating with OVR so we can work across the Shapiro Administration to connect Pennsylvanians with disabilities to employment and create a Pennsylvania that benefits from the talents of all people.” 

OVR assists Pennsylvanians with disabilities in obtaining and retaining employment. Some 370,000 individuals have received services from OVR since 2016, including vocational counseling, evaluations, medical diagnostic services, medical restoration services, employment training, placement services, and career support services.