Finding employment has always been a big deal for most of us. Looking for a new job takes a lot of time, effort and patience. Moving through obstacles has never been more important with a fast-moving and competitive job market, changes in how we work and more opportunities for everyone to access meaningful work.
For people with a disability, deciding to return to the workplace raises additional, complex questions to answer. How should I discuss my disability? How much should it matter to an employer? Do I need accommodations? Thanks to the efforts of the United Spinal Association and a contribution from Allsup Employment Services (AES), those added challenges get handled quickly and expertly.
A Shared History Of Helping
Started in 2022, United Spinal’s Pathways to Employment provides a wide range of support for those with disabilities seeking to return to work. Part of their offering is the Employment Work Readiness & Education Program, a 13-week course program covering key job-hunting topics in detail. Subjects include how to disclose a disability, understanding accommodations, preparing for interviews and much more.
After some initial help in 2023 with some specific sessions, AES provided increasing program participation including course preparation and instruction. As one of the industry’s leading experts on returning to work for people with disabilities, AES has continued to be in a unique position to add value. The shared mission of helping people with disabilities to cultivate new opportunities has made for a meaningful collaboration.
“The workplace landscape is constantly evolving,” says Lesly St. Louis, director with United Spinal. “Our partnership with Allsup Employment Services ensures that our members have access to the most current strategies and resources. Together, we're not just helping people find jobs—we're creating pathways to sustainable careers that accommodate their needs and celebrate their talents.”
The program also helps AES generate awareness of the Ticket To Work (TTW) Program, offered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). This program is part of the benefits which come with Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). TTW is available to recipients of SSDI who wish to return to work without losing key benefits too soon during their attempt. As an SSA-authorized Employment Network for TTW, AES has championed the program for many years and helped thousands of SSDI recipients find work that works for them.
Bringing Years Of Expertise
The AES team used our years of experience to develop the curriculum developed for the Work Readiness Program. The courses are tailored to specifically address disability-related employment challenges.
For instance, in a course which covers making a resume (and whether to include a disability), AES experts provide guidance on how to focus on skills rather than timelines, as well as how to express gaps in employment. “These courses are more than just job prep,” says Diane Winiarski, director with Allsup Employment Services. “They’re also about helping participants rebuild confidence and regain focus after life-changing health events. We meet people where they are and guide them toward where they want to go.”
In another example, a course regarding interview preparation, there’s specifics provided about whether to disclose your disability and how to do it if you so choose. “Deciding whether to disclose a disability during the job search is deeply personal,” says Rachel Deick, manager of vocational case management with AES. “In our courses, we don’t push one answer—we equip participants with the knowledge to make the choice that’s right for them, based on their needs, their rights and the type of support they may need on the job.”
More Than Just Helping
Allsup Employment Services continues to help people with disabilities prepare for their next life chapter. Our teamwork with United Spinal Association shows the benefits of combining quality education with real-life experience and supportive guidance.
Working with United Spinal, we're doing more than just helping people find jobs—we're helping with regaining independence, finding purpose again and seeing new possibilities after experiencing a disability.
Returning To Work With Allsup Employment Services
Allsup Employment Services (AES) is an SSA-authorized EN for the Ticket To Work Program. We have over 10 years of experience helping thousands return to work successfully. We can help guide you through the SSDI work incentives on your return-to-work journey.
The Ticket To Work Program helps you protect your SSA disability benefits. Working with AES you can:
- Earn More. Make as much income as you choose during the Trial Work Period and protect your full SSDI benefits.
- Stress Less. Avoid medical disability reviews and the worry that comes with them.
- Keep Medicare. While working, you can keep Medicare for over seven years.
- Avoid Risk. If you stop working anytime within five years, your SSDI benefits can resume through a reinstatement process.
- Pay Nothing. As a Social Security-authorized Employment Network, our services are provided at no cost.
Choosing AES means working with an EN who’s focused on your goals and will work with you every step of the way.
Get Started With No Cost And No Obligation.
You can reach Allsup Employment Services today by calling 866-540-5105 or requesting a call.
