Employment First Newsletter March 2021
Funding Reimbursement for DDA Approved Employment Training

The Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) is extending funding reimbursement for the DDA approved employment trainings and cost of 
Certified Employment Supports Professional (CESP) exam until the new Employment Services rates become effective. 
Please remember that anyone delivering Discovery, Job Development and Self-Employment Development supports after Employment Services are effective must have proof of competency in the best practices of Customized Employment as evidenced by completing and passing the Certified Employment Support Professional exam through the Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE). See the link below to know where and how to submit the information to get your reimbursement. 
Click here for the full memo.

The Hiring Chain
To celebrate World Down Syndrome Day, world renowned musician Sting contributed to this catchy campaign.
By hiring someone with Down syndrome, you start a virtuous chain: the more that people with Down Syndrome are seen at work, the more they’ll be recognized as valuable employees, and the more they’ll be hired. Do your part, start the Hiring Chain today.
Seeking Proposals: Rebuilding DDA Providers throughout Maryland through Technical Assistance
A direct and compelling headline
Proposals Due May 7th, 2021
The Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council (Council) seeks proposals from community service providers, licensed, certified, or approved by the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA). The goal of this project is to ensure people with developmental disabilities receive services in a seamless, individualized, and sustainable way, whether they are at home, on-site with a provider, or in the community.

A maximum of five diverse providers will be selected to receive technical assistance from a subject matter expert selected by the Council. Each of the providers will work with the selected subject matter expert to transform service delivery models and business practices, recover and rebuild as needed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and identify effective strategies that can be replicated.

Preference will be given to providers who have not received a TIP grant from the Council in the past. Those currently receiving a transformational grant from another organization or government agency are not eligible. Providers in a rural setting are encouraged to apply.

To review the full request for proposals, click the "more information" button.
March ODEP Community of Practice Webinar
The Impact of COVID-19 on Employment for People with Disabilities: Notes from a National Online Dialogue and Implications for the Future
A critical priority for the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP), is to invest in systems change efforts that result in increased community-based, integrated employment opportunities for individuals with significant disabilities.

On March 10, 2021 ODEP Community of Practice held the following webinar -
"The Impact of COVID-19 on Employment for People with Disabilities: Notes from a National Online Dialogue and Implications for the Future"?

If you were unable to join, you can view it here. 

Below you can access the meeting materials as well as any articles mentioned during the webinar.
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