Pathway to Employment is a structured, time-limited service that helps individuals explore their interests, understand workplace expectations, and build confidence before stepping into paid work.

Areas of focus include:

• career discovery and strengths-based assessment
• soft skills (communication, teamwork, reliability, time management)
• job readiness, resumes, and interview preparation
• community exploration and job shadowing or sampling

The goal is to move from “I don’t know where to start” to “I am ready to take my next step toward work.”

Individual Supported Employment (ISE) provides 1:1 support in competitive, integrated community jobs. A job coach works directly with the individual on-site and behind the scenes to help them learn and keep their job.

Supports may include:

• on-the-job training and task breakdown
• developing natural supports and workplace relationships
• problem-solving around communication, routines, and expectations
• gradual fading of support as independence increases

ISE is centered on long-term success—building skills, confidence, and stability in the workplace.

Group Supported Employment (GSE) offers small-group work opportunities with on-site coaching and supervision. Individuals work together in a community setting while building skills and confidence in a supportive environment.

Typical components include:

• structured work tasks completed as part of a small team
• modeling and coaching from employment staff
• developing work habits such as punctuality, persistence, and responsibility
• social skills, communication, and teamwork in real work environments

GSE is ideal for individuals who benefit from peer support and shared learning while earning income.

Employment Support Aide (ESA) provides additional support for individuals who need help with regulation, behavior, or specific tasks to be successful at work. ESA services complement job coaching and help maintain stability on the job.

ESA may support with:

• staying regulated and managing sensory or emotional needs
• prompting and cueing for tasks, transitions, or routines
• problem-solving around triggers, stress, or overwhelm
• communication between the individual, employer, and team when appropriate

The focus is to keep the individual safe, supported, and able to remain employed in the least restrictive setting.

Employment-Related Transportation provides safe, reliable rides that make work possible. This service is designed to remove transportation barriers so individuals can get to and from work and employment services.

Transportation may include:

• rides to and from competitive or group employment
• transportation to Pathway to Employment activities
• rides to interviews, onboarding, and job training
• support with safe drop-off, pick-up, and transitions

Vehicles meet all:

• insurance and registration requirements
• safety and maintenance standards
• DDD and state compliance expectations

Availability and eligibility are based on DDD authorization, service plan, and location.