Here is information to help people with disabilities learn about jobs and work. Resources include how to find and apply for a job, write a resume, interview for a job, and keep a job. Each person is the most important part of their job search and work related efforts.
Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC)
MRC should be the first resource for people with disabilities. MRC can help people with disabilities reach their work related goals. Some of MRC’s services include counseling, job placement assistance, work related training, assistive technology, skills training and more.
To be eligible for MRC Vocational Rehab Services, you must:
- Have a physical, psychiatric or learning disability (or combination of disabilities) which severely limits your ability to get and keep a job.
- Order of selection may depend on available resources available to MRC. Priority is given to people with the most significant disabilities.
- Want to work.
- Be willing to actively participate in your search for a job.
- Be available to meet with your counselor
MRC consumers include people with:
- Psychiatric Disabilities
- Substance Abuse
- Orthopedic Disabilities
- Learning Disabilities
- Developmental Disabilities
- Deaf & Hard of Hearing
- Neurological Disabilities
- Traumatic Brain Injury
- Other Disabilities
Available Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services
MRC’s Vocational Rehabilitation Program helps people with disabilities to find and keep jobs. Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) helps those with physical, psychiatric and/or learning disabilities face the challenges of the modern workplace. VR services can often reduce or remove barriers to work. Priority is given to those individuals who have the most severe disabilities in areas such as communication, self-care, self-direction, mobility, work tolerance and work skills.
Am I eligible for VR services?
MRC Vocational Rehabilitation Process – Steps in the process for VR services:
- Orientation
- Eligibility Determination
- Making Informed Choices
- Job Search
- Post-Employment Services
Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB)
MCB works with Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission to provide vocational rehabilitation and employment services for qualifying individuals.
Mas
sachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (MCDHH)
MCDHH works with Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission to provide employment services and assistive technology needed for work for people who are deaf and hard of hearing.
MassHire Career Centers
MassHire Career Centers are found throughout Massachusetts. Job seekers and workers can access a variety of job assistance services. These include working with experienced career counselors, going to workshops and short-term trainings, finding up-to-date local, statewide and national job listings, using a computer to hunt for jobs, developing a resume, writing cover letters, and more.
- About MassHire Career Centers
- Labor and Workforce Development Resources for Disabled Workers and Employers
- Career Center Services
- Find a Career Center Near You
Independent Living Centers (ILC)
ILCs in Massachusetts are staffed by people with disabilities who have experience with work related issues. They can provide help in areas like accessible technology, advocacy, networking, peer counseling, transportation and skills training.
Work Without Limits
WWL is a statewide network of employers and partners. The goal is to help make Massachusetts the first state in the nation where the employment rate of people with disabilities is equal to that of people without disabilities.
Federal Benefits Program
Social Security Ticket to Work Program
The Ticket to Work program is for people ages 18 through 64 who are blind or have a disability and who receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. The Ticket to Work Program provides free services through providers who work as an Employment Team with you.
Non-profit Vocational Programs
Vocational and work training programs are located throughout Massachusetts. Here are a few examples:
JVS
Job Search Services include job readiness and preparation workshops, career counseling and exploration, job search assistance, resume and interview preparation, job development and placement, job coaching and assistance requesting accommodations. Other JVS services include education, skills building, job seekers networking and job training. Contact: Doreen Treacy, Vice President of Career Services DTreacy@jvs-boston.org. or call 617-399-3204
Community Work Services (CWS) 
CWS helps people with disabilities through job training, job placement, case management and post placement services. Individuals can receive help with job searches, job matches, interviewing and resume skills and job readiness.Serves Boston area. Contact: Eugene Gloss, Vice President of Workforce Development, eugeneg@cwsbos.com or call
617-720-2233 x223
Vinfen
Vinfen Employment Services provide individuals the support they need to develop important job skills needed for career opportunities. This is provided this through community-based vocational training and employment opportunities. Contact: Stephen Moulton, Employment Director 617-441-1800
Search the INDEX Resource database for more programs that offer work related services. When looking for services, focus on programs that have “Employment” or “Work” in their names. You can search in your local area.
