Collaboration with the Division of Developmental Disabilities
In 2017, Arizona was declared an Employment First state. Employment First is a grassroots movement which believes working independently in the community and earning competitive wages (also known as Competitive Integrated Employment, or CIE), is the preferred outcome for all people with disabilities who are of working age.
As a result of Employment First, Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) and the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) increased their collaborative efforts to support mutual clients in preparing for, and obtaining CIE.
For more information about the collaborative agreement between VR and DDD please review the Memorandum of Understanding
How do I get Started?
If you are a member of DDD and interested in obtaining a job in the community that pays at least minimum wage (i.e. Competitive Integrated Employment, or CIE), talk with your DDD Support Coordinator and ask for a referral to VR. You can also visit the DDD website to get more information on DDD services related to work.
VR/DDD Quarterly Progress
The following Quarterly Collaboration Fact Sheets document the progress of the VR and DDD collaboration over the past year.