Episode 146: Transforming Disability Employment Services in Rhode Island

Archive, Bios, Description, Resources and Transcripts for Episode 146: In Celebration of National Disability Employment Awareness Month: Transforming Disability Employment Services in Rhode Island https://adalive.org/episodes/episode-146/ Barry Whaley and Kiernan O'Donnell discuss the impact of the Olmstead case in Rhode Island, which led to a consent decree in 2014 aimed at transitioning people with disabilities from sheltered workshops to integrated community employment. O'Donnell highlights that 80% of Rhode Island's population with disabilities were in sheltered workshops, earning an average of $2.21 per hour, while only 12% were in integrated employment. The decree aimed to increase inclusive employment and reduce segregation. O'Donnell emphasizes the importance of family involvement, interagency collaboration, and customized employment strategies to achieve meaningful employment and community inclusion.