Exiting sheltered employment
This article examines the transition from sheltered workshops to customized employment for people with disabilities in the United States, using Massachusetts as an example. This new employment model aims to promote community integration and improve opportunities for individuals. While the literature...
Salvato in:
| Pubblicato in: | URI:https://journals.openedition.org/alterjdr, |
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| Autore principale: | |
| Natura: | Article ou chapitre numérique |
| Lingua: | Anglais |
| Pubblicazione: |
Alter
2025
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| Soggetti: | |
| Accesso online: | Accès Université d'Orléans et IFPM Accès Université d'Orléans et IFPM |
| Riassunto: | This article examines the transition from sheltered workshops to customized employment for people with disabilities in the United States, using Massachusetts as an example. This new employment model aims to promote community integration and improve opportunities for individuals. While the literature on the subject highlights real advantages, such as higher wages and better socialization, challenges remain, such as workplace accommodations and the high costs associated with personalized support. Furthermore, despite criticism, some families still prefer sheltered workshops, viewing them as safer options that offer protection against harassment and lower productivity expectations. Through a case study in the nonprofit sector, the article explores the challenges of this transition. These associations, operating within a framework of delegated public action, are on the front lines. The research focuses two of these organizations’ practices: the WTP professional transition program and LaborFirm. At the forefront of redefining employment models for people with disabilities, these organizations seek to reshape conventional employment paradigms and create inclusive and empowering environments for people with disabilities. This article contributes to a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities inherent in the evolving employment landscape for people with disabilities in the United States. It advocates for significant social reforms that address the intersection of disability, work, and social policies, to ensure disabled people have access to employment and can fully participate in society. |
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