Development of business supports for persons with mental retardation in the workplace

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Paul Wehman, | Pam Targett, | Helen Eltzeroth, | Howard Green, | Valerie Brooke, | J. Michael Barcus,

Affiliations: Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Work Place Supports, Virginia Commonwealth University, P.O. Box 842011, Richmond, VA 23284-2011, USA. Tel.: +1 804 828 1851; Fax: +1 804 828 2193

Abstract: The establishment of business based supports for workers with disabilities can increase opportunities for secure employment with good pay, benefits, and advancement for people with moderate and severe mental retardation. This article describes a model that helps companies build their capacities to support workers with disabilities. A corporate or community based liaison is available to guide and provide technical assistance during this internal process, which involves: analyzing existing workplace supports and modifying or creating new strategies or activities that enable people with disabilities to participate in all phases of the employment process.

Keywords: business based supports, workplace supports, employment and mental retardation

Journal: Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, vol. 13, no. 3, pp. 175-181, 1999