Who is eligible for your supported employment services?

Anyone with intellectual or developmental disabilities who wants to work and seeks individualized support can engage with ALSO’s supported employment program.

What kind of jobs are offered through this service?

Jobs can range from part-time positions of about 10 to 20 hours per week and are tailored to the person’s interests and abilities.

Is assistance provided in finding employment?

Yes. ALSO’s job coaches support each step of the process, from applications and interviews to introductions with inclusive employers.

Is on-the-job training or support available?

Yes. Job coaches provide training and ongoing support until the employee feels confident and independent in their role.

Can benefits continue while working?

In many cases, yes. ALSO’s employment team helps individuals and families understand how work may affect benefits and supports informed decision-making.

How does ALSO’s supported employment program work for employers?

ALSO partners with employers to identify hiring needs and connect them with qualified candidates. Ongoing job coaching and follow-up support help support lasting success.

Employment Services

Q: How does the supported employment process begin?

The process starts by talking with the person about employment goals, interests, and preferences. ALSO then helps search for a job opportunity that suits the person’s skills and the employer’s needs.

Q: Is previous work experience required?

No. Supported employment services are designed for all experience levels, with coaching and guidance to build workplace confidence and skills.

Q: Is there a cost to participate as an employer?

No. There is no cost to employers. Job coaching and support services are funded through ALSO and state programs.

Q: How are candidates prepared for employment?

Each candidate receives person-centered training and job readiness support tailored to the role, helping support a strong start and smooth transition.

What Are Supported Employment Services?

Supported employment is a model of job development and ongoing workplace support that helps
adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) find, prepare for, and keep
meaningful jobs in their communities.

At ALSO, employment is not an afterthought. It is central to how we think about independence.
People frequently define a part of themselves by the work they do. The people we support
identify with and seek real inclusion in the careers they pursue, and we are here to make those
visions a reality. Employment is essential to fully realizing independence, identity, and
financial freedom for adults with I/DD in Oregon.

ALSO’s employment team includes job coaches and employment specialists who support every stage
of the process, from exploring options and applying to onboarding and long-term success on the
job.

What Our Employment Services Include

ALSO’s employment services are tailored to each person’s goals, skills, and the needs of their
employer. Services may include:

Person-centered career exploration and goal setting
Job matching based on individual skills, interests, and employer needs
Application and interview preparation
Vocational training and job readiness support
On-the-job coaching until the employee is confident and independent
Benefits counseling to help individuals understand how work affects federal and state
benefits
Coordination with ALSO’s Supported Living and residential teams as needed
Ongoing follow-up support for both employee and employer
Vocational rehabilitation services for employment support

All job coaching and support services are provided at no cost to employers.

Our Person-Centered Approach

Built Around the Individual

Every employment journey starts with a conversation. We talk with the person about their goals, interests, strengths, and preferences before we ever begin a job search. We do not place people in whatever position is available. We find opportunities that genuinely fit. When a job matches who someone is, not just what they can do, the results are better for everyone.

A Partnership That Works for Employers Too

ALSO’s model is built around a three-way partnership: the person we support, the employer, and our team. Businesses gain responsible, motivated team members. Our employment specialists handle the coordination, coaching, and follow-up so that employers can focus on running their operations.

"ALSO has gone beyond all expectations to create a team which honors Cody's individualism and to support him in his occupation."

Ann Donaca-Sullivan Mom to Cody, Portland, OR

Who Is Eligible for Supported Employment Services?

Supported employment services are available to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Oregon who want to work and are seeking individualized support to do so. No previous work experience is required. Our program is designed for all experience levels, with coaching and guidance to build workplace confidence and skills from the ground up.

Eligibility is typically determined through Oregon’s Office of Developmental Disability Services (ODDS) and your local county developmental disabilities office. Funding is available through Oregon Vocational Rehabilitation and Medicaid-funded waiver programs.

How to Get Started with Supported Employment in Oregon

Contact your county’s Developmental Disabilities office or Oregon Vocational Rehabilitation to begin an eligibility and referral process.
Once referred, ALSO’s employment team connects with you to learn about your goals, interests, and work history.
Job matching begins: we identify employers and opportunities that fit your skills and preferences.
Onboarding and job coaching begins, with ALSO staff on-site to support your success.
Ongoing follow-up continues as long as needed to ensure a lasting, positive employment experience

Understanding Your Options: Employment Services at a Glance

ALSO offers several employment-related services. Understanding the differences can help individuals and families choose the right fit:

Service	Best For	What ALSO Provides
Supported Employment	Adults with I/DD seeking community-based jobs	Job matching, coaching, vocational training, employer coordination
Employer Partnership	Businesses looking to hire inclusively	Not sure where to start? Contact Miranda Chatterton, Associate Employment Director, or explore ALSO’s full range of services.

Not sure which service is right? Contact our team or explore ALSO’s full range of services to learn more.