Disability Resource Coordination

SeanFisherABLE_XSeries

*Sean Fisher's image used with permission

Differently-Abled opportunities!
Social Security Work Incentives and the Return to work, understanding the path to self-sufficiency

  • This informative workshop will show you how work incentives through the Social Security Administration can help you return to work successfully, and guide you as to what programs and services you are eligible for.
  • More information HERE
  • Check our Events page for the next scheduled event!

Disability Resource Coordination: FREE support to job seekers with disabilities

Twenty percent of the workforce has a disability or will acquire one during their working years (ages 16-65 years). Many job seekers with disabilities are looking for services and supports that can address their particular concerns. The Disability Resource Coordinator (DRC) can assist with the unique needs and concerns of job seekers with disabilities.

We can assist with the following:

  • Job Search Skills 
  • Access to Community Resources
  • SSI / SSD Benefits Advisement 
  • Plan for Economic Self-Sufficiency 
  • And more!

Did you know?

In our Resource Room we have a computer with internet access and Assistive Technologies available including:

  • headphones
  • adaptive computer (screen magnification, Read & Write Gold, JAWS, Dragon Naturally Speaking)
  • high contrast keyboard with larger print characters
  • slimblade trackball
  • scanner
  • desktop microphone

We also have Interpreters available by phone for non-english speaking customers in the Center, and Sign language interpreters can be arranged for scheduled meetings with Center staff.

Scholarships & Grants for Students with Disabilities

If you’re a student with a disability and you’re looking for some extra help paying for college or want to take advantage of the many academic and career support programs available, you’ve come to the right place. This guide highlights 40 scholarships to help you reach your academic and career goals, including paths focused on public service such as teaching, law, nursing, and firefighting. Read on to find the funding sources that fit your individual goals and learn about professional resources, advocacy organizations, and opportunities for networking.

Hear from some of our customers....how were we able to assist?

JESSIE

Jessie receives SSDI, has physical limitations, severe medical issues and in interested in obtaining a job. Jessie came to the Work Incentives Workshop for general information about how wages will affect disability benefits. After the workshop, Jessie made an appointment with the DRC to see how the road to self-sufficiency could look.

The initial meeting showed that it had been a long time since Jessie had last worked, he had a clear work goal but needed a little more education to obtain the position. Jessie also really wanted to know what wage or salary was needed to become financially self- sufficient. The DRC was able to assist the customer with determining a targeted wage, employment options, and education, connect to employers actively hiring, and an individualized work incentives plan to outline the road to a living wage.

The Ticket to Work program at Niagara’s WorkSourceOne was able to provide a benefits analysis report, identify a living wage/salary, tuition assistance, and connection to hiring businesses. Jessie did find employment and felt confident in taking the position because the wage was above the levels reviewed.

Jessie now talks about financial security due to raises, bonuses, and retirement savings. Recently, Jessie was talking about looking to purchase a home in a different part of town. Jessie even said that work has decreased the number of visits to the doctor, improved body movement and strength.

Jessie thanks Niagara’s WorkSourceOne and the Ticket to Work program for the support in achieving goals that were only dreams.

SUE 

Sue has a developmental disability and receives SSI. Sue had heard about Niagara’s WorkSourceOne DRC through a friend. Sue called to set up an appointment to explore the possibility of working 40 hours a week and offsetting her SSI benefits. At the initial meeting, the DRC learned that Sue had a care coordinator at an OPWDD agency. Sue was hesitant to let the OPWDD agency know that she had a goal of working full time hours. The DRC and Sue discussed the benefits of working with everyone who supports her.

Sue did agree and the DRC began the process of building a bridge between the different support agencies. The biggest worry was that Sue would lose her Medicaid that pays for the Care Coordinator. The DRC was able to show everyone how Sue will be able to continue her Medicaid coverage through various programs because she would be working. This information made everyone more comfortable with her decision to work 40 hours at $2.25 per hour OVER minimum wage.

Five years later, Sue continues to work 40 hours or more per week at a livable wage. The DRC is invited to the quarterly meetings at the OPWDD agency to review and ensure that Sue has the needed supports in place to support her road to financial security.

Sue thanks Niagara’s WorkSourceOne and the Ticket to Work program with being able and willing to support her goals and through the bumps in the road.

ABBIE

Abbie is a delightful individual with multiple disabilities and big dreams. Abbie liked working, but due to a car accident, she was no longer able to do the job anymore. Abbie had heard that Niagara’s WorkSourceOne could help her create a resume, provide her with job leads, and connect with employers coming in to fill open positions. Abbie came to the Center to register and find a job. At the initial meeting, Abbie had mentioned that she was receiving SSDI benefits and was afraid to lose her monthly income especially if a new job did not work out. Abbie was referred to the DRC to review supports in place to help her journey back to a salaried position.

Abbie met with the DRC to talk about work incentives that could be available to her. Through the Ticket to Work program, the DRC was able to write and give Abbie a report to refer back to when needed. Abbie received a resume which assisted her in landing a salaried position like she had hoped for!

Seven years later, Abbie continues to work for the same company earning much more than when she started. Abbie thanks Niagara’s WorkSourceOne and the Ticket to Work program for making her transition from a fixed income that was just making ends meet to a life where saving for the future is now possible.

For more information or to get started, please contact our Disability Resource Coordinator:

Marilyn Patterson
Niagara's WorkSourceOne
1001 Eleventh St.
Niagara Falls, NY 14301
(716) 278-1695
Marilyn.patterson@niagaracounty.com

Additional Resources

WHLCHR-P_mediumTELVOL-P_medium

*Sean Fisher is a student at the University of Queensland in Brisbane, Australia, and the face of the AbleX Series. More information can be found at https://www.edx.org/course/through-eyes-intellectual-disability-uqx-able101x-0