DEED-VRS/SSB and DHS Employment First Engagement Opportunities

DEED-VRS/SSB and DHS Employment First Engagement Opportunities

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) – Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRS) and State Services for the Blind (SSB) are working with the Department of Human Services (DHS) to align employment service systems for people with disabilities who want to pursue competitive, integrated employment.  Together, DEED-VRS/SSB and DHS are looking for ways to engage stakeholders and inform policymakers.

 Are you interested in receiving up-to-date information on DEED-VRS and SSB’s efforts to coordinate with DHS to support people who want to pursue competitive, integrated employment and fulfill Minnesota’s Employment First policy? If so, here are two opportunities for you:

• Interagency Employment First Advisory Committee: This voluntary committee seeks members to advise DHS and DEED-VRS/SSB as they work together to implement Minnesota’s Employment First policy and fulfill agreements in the September 2019 joint memorandum of understanding. The application can be found here and the deadline to submit applications is March 31, 2020.
•  Professional Input Panel for Employment (PIPEin): This voluntary group seeks support professionals who are willing to provide feedback to DHS and DEED-VRS/SSB regarding statewide efforts to align programs and implement Minnesota’s Employment First policy. The application can be found here.

More information

For more information on each opportunity and links to sign up or apply, go to the Employment Fist page and click on the “Get Involved” tab.

 If you have questions about these opportunities or need help, contact dsd.employmentfirst@state.mn.us