Lesson 1: Supported Employment Core Training Series

Welcome to the field of Supported Employment. All Employment Specialists (those providing direct support in any phase of Supported Employment in Kentucky) are required to complete the full Supported Employment Core Training Series. This training series will provide you an overview of this service and the information needed – both process and paperwork – to support people with disabilities to find good jobs. The Core Training Series is hybrid event, each session is made up of online courses that must be completed prior to attending the live days via Zoom. 

Session 1 is an Overview of Supported Employment in Kentucky  

Upon completing Session 1 you should understand:

  • The importance of employment for people with a significant impact of disability 
  • The Kentucky service systems that provide supported employment  
  • The phases of supported employment, required documentation and billing through the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation  
  • Various ways Long Term Supports are provided/funded following the closure of a case with the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation.  
  • Strategies to implement the phases of service with the job seekers/employees you support.  

Session 2 is an Overview of the Impact of Wages on Benefits  

Upon completing Session 2 you should understand: 

  • The difference between Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) 
  • How SSI is impacted by earned income (wages)  
  • How SSDI is impacted by earned income (wages) 
  • The importance of ABLE accounts and Special Needs Trusts as vehicles for saving money
  • Where to find additional resources on this topic and how to connect job seekers with Benefits Counselors   

Throughout the Supported Employment Core Training Series, we will reference training materials found in an online Dropbox. You can find materials here:  

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/xcxwy9d5dsbntqg/AADC74GHdTIjvgdxr6UwLLkPa?dl=0

Please watch this short overview on how to use Dropbox as your SE Core Training manual.  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sgY7006KNyY

After you complete the final Session 2 live day via Zoom, you will receive a link to the final quiz for the Supported Employment Core Training Series. Upon passing this quiz, you will receive your certificate of completion.