At Lehigh Valley Companion Care Homes, we are dedicated to providing meaningful, inclusive opportunities for individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) and Autism. As a community home in Pennsylvania, our mission is closely aligned with the Employment First Act—a groundbreaking law that promotes competitive, integrated employment for individuals with disabilities. By empowering the individuals we serve to seek and succeed in employment, we continue to uphold our commitment to fostering independence, personal growth, and community inclusion.

What Is the Employment First Act?

The Employment First Act, passed in Pennsylvania in 2018, aims to ensure that individuals with disabilities, including those with intellectual disabilities and autism, are given the tools and support needed to participate in the workforce. This law mandates that public agencies prioritize competitive employment in integrated settings as the first option for individuals with disabilities who want to work.

For individuals living with disabilities, meaningful employment offers much more than a paycheck. It’s about building self-esteem, gaining independence, developing skills, and being active, valued members of the community. The Employment First initiative helps remove barriers to employment by offering vocational training, job placement services, and ongoing support for employees with disabilities.

How We Align with the Employment First Act

At Lehigh Valley Companion Care Homes, we proudly support the vision of the Employment First Act. Our approach to care and community living is rooted in the belief that every person, regardless of their disability, deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, and for many, this includes finding fulfilling employment. Here’s how we make that happen:

1. Individualized Support for Employment

We recognize that every person’s journey toward employment is unique. That’s why we tailor our services to meet the individual needs of those we support. Whether an individual requires job training, skill-building, or ongoing job coaching, we work closely with them to identify their strengths and interests, ensuring they find a job that is both meaningful and aligned with their capabilities.

2. Partnerships with Local Employers

We partner with local businesses and employers in the Lehigh Valley area to create inclusive workplaces that welcome individuals with disabilities. Through these partnerships, we advocate for equal job opportunities and provide businesses with the tools and resources needed to support employees with ID and autism. By fostering these connections, we help break down stereotypes and demonstrate the value that individuals with disabilities bring to the workforce.

3. Vocational Training and Skill Development

Our staff, including dedicated Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), play a critical role in preparing individuals for the workforce. We provide ongoing training and development that equips the individuals we serve with essential skills like communication, time management, and teamwork. In addition, we offer vocational programs that simulate real-world job scenarios, helping to build confidence and competence in the workplace.

4. Ongoing Advocacy and Education

We understand that advocacy is key to changing perceptions about individuals with disabilities. Lehigh Valley Companion Care Homes actively participates in community outreach and education programs, raising awareness about the importance of inclusive employment. We work to ensure that the individuals in our care are not only given the opportunity to work but are also respected, supported, and celebrated in their roles.

The Role of Direct Support Professionals

At the heart of our mission to align with the Employment First Act are our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). These dedicated individuals provide essential support, helping those with intellectual disabilities and autism navigate the path to employment. DSPs assist with everything from job searching to on-the-job support, ensuring that each person has the resources they need to succeed in the workforce.

As the need for DSPs continues to grow, we encourage individuals passionate about making a difference in the lives of people with disabilities to consider a rewarding career in this field. By joining the Lehigh Valley Companion Care Homes team, you can be part of the Employment First movement, helping to change lives through meaningful work.

Looking to the Future

As we continue to grow, Lehigh Valley Companion Care Homes remains deeply committed to the principles of the Employment First Act. By empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism to seek employment, we not only enhance their lives but also strengthen the fabric of our community. We believe that through education, advocacy, and collaboration, we can help build a more inclusive world—one where everyone has the opportunity to work, contribute, and succeed.

If you or someone you know could benefit from our services, or if you are a local employer interested in creating an inclusive workplace, we’d love to hear from you. Together, we can continue to make the vision of the Employment First Act a reality for all.