Despite progress in some states, federal law still allows employers to pay individuals with disabilities less than minimum wage under Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act. This practice perpetuates segregated workplaces and restricts career growth.
In contrast, Pennsylvania's InVEST Project, guided by the "Employment First" philosophy, champions competitive, integrated employment for people with disabilities. In alignment with the 2018 Act 36, InVEST is actively working to expand access to meaningful employment opportunities for Pennsylvanians with disabilities, including students and young adults.
The Integrated Vocational Engagement & Support Team (InVEST) Project is a SWTCIE initiative which seeks to reduce subminimum wage employment and enhance opportunities for Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE) for individuals with disabilities who are currently in, have, or are considering subminimum wage positions. InVEST promotes “Employment First”, economic development, and disability rights while focusing on systems training to gather info and plan and deliver services in a more holistic and person-centered way.
Resume Building
Community Based Work Assessments
Job Shadowing
Job Coaching
Personalized and Group Trainings
Services includes career exploration and assistance in; vocational assessment and discovery
Application, Interviewing
On the job support
Identifying and meeting wellness needs
Connections to supportive colleagues and other networks
Assist individuals to explore career advancement opportunities
Provides two onsite specialists on each designated employer
Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR)
Office of Developmental Programs (ODP)
Achieva
PA Family Network (PAFN)
Sheetz, Inc. is the first employer in Pennsylvania to commit to the InVEST project with plans to hire up to 10 individuals annually and retain all previously hired individuals. Sheetz and Achieva will support these new employees with embedded staff including an Inclusion Liaison and Employment Specialist funded by OVR, who will support on-site employees, develop accommodations, and prepare employees for long-term success.