CFS Training Helps Increase Employment Success for Those With Developmental Disabilities

Despite the fact that 75% of Florida’s adults with developmental disabilities have stated a desire to work, only 31% are employed. Often when these individuals are employed, usually through supported services, they are required to fit into an existing job description, rather than having one designed around them. Many end up with jobs that may not be good matches for them, and as a result, the jobs are lost or growth opportunities are limited.

In order to create more employment options paying sustainable wages throughout the state, CFS received funding from the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council to offer entrepreneurial training and business plan development to individuals with developmental disabilities, focusing on the identification and creation of very small businesses, known as micro-enterprises.

A micro enterprise - having 5 or fewer employees and requiring $35,000 or less in start-up capital - has proven to be a viable option for those needing an alternative to minimum wage labor and public assistance. Built around the individual’s interests and desires, micro enterprises allow them to test ideas with small start-up costs and without jeopardizing their benefits.

“ Since many individuals with disabilities have abbreviated or no job histories, they typically enter the job market in low-paying, entry level positions,” said David Guido, project director of the Micro Enterprise Training and Technical Assistance Project. “Self-employment can offer a unique opportunity to avoid many of these pitfalls.”

During the first year, the project has introduced a number of individuals with development disabilities, their families, and support networks to the concept and feasibility of Micro-Enterprises. This has been accomplished through activities that have included:

• The establishment of a project advisory committee.
• The involvement of collaboration partners including key state programs and support providers.
• The development of training and technical modules.
• The planning of informational sessions set up throughout the state.The identification of 5 entrepreneurs and core teams assigned to five different geographical locations where training and technical assistance sessions are being held.

The project entrepreneurs have been selected and reside in Islamorada, Pensacola, Jacksonville, Tampa and Ft. Myers. Guido reports that “each of the entrepreneurs have established their teams, consisting of representation from their families, friends, the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, Vocational Rehabilitation, Small Business Development Centers, Senior Core of Retired Executives, School District personnel, etc. The composition of each team is different and based on the team's needs.”

The entrepreneurs have been through the first two training and technical assistance sessions. “This has afforded them the opportunity to refine their business concept and conduct market research,” added Guido. “The remaining two sessions will continue to contribute to the development of the focus of the entrepreneurs' business plans.”
The individuals have chosen a variety of small business opportunities, including multi-media, training and consultation, greeting cards, health food vending machines, and make up artist.
Additional information can be obtained by contacting David Guido at guido@fmhi.usf.edu, or Beth Keeton at 813-974-0632 or bkeeton@fmhi.usf.edu.