Universal Design encompasses common strategies that benefit many groups, rather than responding to the needs of different customers or workers in isolation. For example, applying a Universal Design approach to the physical space, service delivery, and customer resources of One-Stop Career Centers helps address the diverse needs of all business customers and job seekers, not just individuals with disabilities.

To encourage greater use of Universal Design practices by state and local workforce agencies, the NTAR Leadership Center is welcoming applications for a special 10-month program in which nationally recognized experts will offer intensive customized technical assistance in this area. Through a competitive solicitation, the Center will select up to five state teams to undertake a pilot program that incorporates Universal Design into their existing employment services and facilities. All costs for technical assistance and coaching will be covered throughout the period of engagement by NTAR.

Applications, including a cover letter, must be submitted to the NTAR Leadership Center by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Friday, December 10, 2010. 

 

Read the Technical Assistance in Universal Design Request for Applications document in Microsoft Word

Read the Technical Assistance in Universal Design Request for Applications document in PDF

Read the transcript of the November 29 online information session in Microsoft Word

Read the transcript of the November 29 online information session in PDF

In 2008, the NTAR Leadership Center established the State Leaders Innovation Institute (SLII) to provide special technical assistance and leadership support to three selected states seeking to improve employment for adults with disabilities by connecting their state workforce policies to state and local economic growth and development goals. Teams of high-level state policymakers from Connecticut, Maryland, and Minnesota -- representing economic development, workforce development, and disability employment -- have used the past two years to build upon their innovative approaches to increase disability employment.

 

The three SLII states are seen as leading the nation in workforce participation for adults with disabilities. Through a series of conferences and webinars, they have worked together to share their challenges, experiences, and accomplishments.

 

This collaborative approach has helped each state strengthen and expand its disability employment efforts. Connecticut has partnered with employers interested in hiring more adults with disabilities, while helping schools acquire the assistive technology equipment they need. Maryland is using web portals, career workshops, job expos, and industry fact sheets to help job seekers with disabilities match their skills to job openings in growing defense companies. Minnesota has also succeeded in building an integrated network of employers, schools, and workforce development agencies working to create new opportunities for both youth and adults with disabilities.

 

The experience of the SLII states demonstrates how much public and private sectors can achieve together when everyone from the governor on down makes disability employment a statewide priority.

 

Read the executive summary of Leading the Way: The First Year of the State Leaders Innovation Institute.