Tennessee Recognized for Continued Leadership in Employment for People with Disabilities

According to a recent news release, the Tennessee Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (DIDD) secured federal support for Tennessee’s work to increase competitive, integrated job opportunities for people with disabilities for the fifth consecutive year.

The article states “Tennessee’s recognition as a Core and Community of Practice State in the Employment First State Leadership Mentoring Program (EFSLMP) by the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) means several more disability service providers will receive training and technical assistance as they transition from segregated workshops to community-based employment.  This transition has the potential to positively impact more than 500 people currently supported by DIDD.”

“We know that competitive, integrated employment enriches the lives of Tennesseans with disabilities, and this renewed funding will help us build on the gains we have already seen,” said Debra K. Payne, DIDD Commissioner.  “With the enthusiasm, dedication, and hard work of our partners and providers, Tennessee is leading the way.”

Another area of focus includes interagency efforts to better align services for people who have both IDD and a mental health diagnosis.