Work experiences have been proven to improve outcomes for youth with disabilities transitioning out of high school. From 2004 to 2006, an average of 8% of youth with disabilities applied for vocational rehabilitation services. Of those who applied, only 56% actually received services. Our goal is for at least six states to commit to supporting internships, scholarships, and other evidence-based services to help youth with disabilities transitioning from high school to higher education and employment. This work will be done through collaboration and change in educational systems, vocational rehabilitation agencies, and state partnerships with the private sector.  We will also work with the appropriate offices within the federal government to ensure that policies and protocol promote advancement of the state commitments.

   Learn how we’re moving forward on this goal >>  

Specific goals include:

• Closing gaps in state employment outcomes for youth with disabilities
• Increasing opportunities for internships (like Project Search) and mentorships at high school level
• Increasing community involvement through local government, community organizations, business, and civic engagement
• Expanding knowledge and information for youth transition services including Department of Education policy directives on IDEA and Rehab Act and transition training for teachers 
• Increasing formal partnerships between transition services and private sector 
• Creation of new outreach to parents about transition opportunities including parental mentorships, improved timing of federal outreach, and a directory of resources