Employment rates for deaf people have not improved since 2008, and we want to change that. NDC has received additional Rehabilitation Services Administration funding to support the development of innovative employment partnerships that increase job opportunities for deaf people. In light of that, we are actively looking for partners to join a cohort with the goal of:
- Building robust community networks and partnerships
- Strengthening interagency collaborations
- Integrating career development and readiness into transition planning
NDC is inviting teams to our new Career Readiness Program to strengthen and increase competitive integrated employment opportunities for deaf people in your community. Collaborative partnerships are an evidence-based practice in the field of transition—and result in better outcomes for people with disabilities. We are looking for teams with multiple partners from:
- vocational rehabilitation agencies,
- state agencies serving deaf people,
- high schools,
- apprenticeship programs,
- college career centers, and
- employers.
This program will include support from NDC staff to assist with strengthening models, programs, or any related goals—big or small—that help increase employment outcomes for deaf people. Whether your team wants to tackle an existing program, starts fresh, or simply needs a hand in pinpointing areas of improvement, we’re here to support the process. Partners do not need to do a major overhaul to join this initiative. Every step counts!
This is free for you! NDC will fund travel, consultants, and accommodations related to training and working meetings for this project. This is a two-year commitment from April 2024-2026 and will begin with a virtual kick-off in May 2024.
Meetings with the cohort on a quarterly basis, check-ins, and several training sessions will be held remotely and two in-person opportunities for collaborative working meetings in the Spring and Fall of 2025.
Each team will receive free customized support from NDC—including site analysis, project management support, consultation, training, data analysis and program evaluation support, and coaching.
Sharing Your Success Stories
Your participation in this program includes NDC’s support with sharing your team’s success stories! As you work to develop programs and initiatives to foster employment opportunities for deaf people, we will share them on our website, across social media platforms, in conference presentations, and in manuscripts.
Together, we can make waves of change! Our team is ready to connect with you and answer any questions you may have. Email Lore Kinast, Director of Strategic Support: Lore@nationaldeafcenter.org.
