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E4Texas Senior Outreach Program Coordinator

Kathleen Hernandez

According to Rich Luecking, EdD Research Professor at the University of Maryland, the importance of paid employment experiences for youth with disabilities is the single-strongest predictor of post-school employment. In fact, students with disabilities are 3.8 times more likely to be employed one year after high school if they were employed during high school (Rabren et al., 2002). To ensure a seamless transition from secondary school to the next phase of their lives, it is crucial for students to have exposure to work experiences and job opportunities.

The E4Texas program recognizes the significance of work experiences in preparing students for successful employment outcomes. By connecting students with internship opportunities in their chosen field of study during their final semester, E4Texas aims to provide practical, hands-on experience in real-world settings. These internships allow students to develop essential work skills, explore their career paths, and identify their preferences in terms of working environments. It’s our intent that when a student officially completes the E4Texas program, they have the tools they need to seamlessly transition to employment.

Collaboration between our E4Texas staff and community partners (transition coordinators, vocational rehabilitation counselors, community rehabilitation agencies, and community employers) are an invaluable part of this transition process. By leveraging the available resources and support available through their E4Texas connections, students have the opportunity to engage in meaningful work experiences that lead to post-school employment. Through these collaborations, E4Texas students gain valuable work experience, receive job coaching support, and have a smoother transition into the workforce.

By integrating work experiences into the curriculum and leveraging community partnerships, E4Texas empowers its students with the skills, confidence, and network needed to pursue their career goals. These internships not only provide practical training but also foster independence, self-advocacy, and a sense of accomplishment for the students.

The E4Texas program recognizes the importance of paid employment experiences as a crucial aspect of seamless transition for young adults with disabilities. By assisting students in finding internship opportunities and facilitating partnerships with community organizations, E4Texas equips its students with the necessary skills and support to successfully enter the workforce. Through practical work experiences, students gain valuable insights, develop work skills, and increase their chances of long-term employment success.

Want to learn more about the E4Texas post-secondary program at the University of Texas-Austin? Register for our annual Open House to learn all about this employment-focused transition program!  For additional information, visit our website or email our Program Outreach Coordinator at Kathleen.Hernandez@austin.UTexas.edu. Your journey towards growth and empowerment starts here!

The latest National Trends in Disability Employment (nTIDE) report for August 2023, issued by Kessler Foundation and the University of New Hampshire’s Institute on Disability brings good news for people with disabilities. The new report highlights record-breaking achievements in labor force participation and employment-to-population ratios among people with disabilities.

Labor Force Participation:

Participation in the labor force for people with disabilities aged 16-64 saw a 2% increase, rising from 40.4% in July 2023 to 41.2% in August 2023.

Conversely, the rate for those without disabilities decreased marginally from 78.4% in July 2023 to 78.2% in August 2023 (source).

Month-to-Month Comparison:

From July 2023 to August 2023, the employment-to-population ratio for people with disabilities (ages 16-64) increased from 37.3% to 37.9% (a 1.6% improvement).

In contrast, people without disabilities witnessed a slight decline, with the employment-to-population ratio dropping from 75.5% to 75.2% (source, source).

Year-to-Year Comparison:

Compared to 2022, participation in the labor force for people with disabilities increased by an impressive 9.6%, reaching 41.2% by August 2023.

For those without disabilities, the rate also increased, though by a smaller margin of 0.9%, reaching 78.2%.

Total Workforce Representation:

In August 2023, people with disabilities aged 16-64 made up 4.3% of the total U.S. workforce, totaling 6,533,000 workers out of 150,594,000.

Overall, the nTIDE August 2023 Jobs Report shows positive trends in employment for people with disabilities, demonstrating their continuous growing participation in today’s work force. These findings underscore the importance of creating inclusive post-secondary education opportunities like E4Texas, and inclusive workplaces and opportunities for people with disabilities.

For more detailed information on this report, please visit the nTIDE archives. For more information about the E4Texas post-secondary program at the University of Texas-Austin, please visit the E4Texas website, where you can register for our upcoming annual Open House to learn all about this employment-focused transition program!  For additional information, visit our website or email our Program Outreach Coordinator at Kathleen.Hernandez@austin.UTexas.edu. Your journey towards growth and empowerment starts here!

At E4Texas, we are proud to support Disability Voting Rights Week (DVRW), happening September 11th- 15th, 2023. This important week, formerly known as National Disability Voter Registration Week, is a nationwide effort coordinated by the American Association of People with Disabilities’ REV UP Voting Campaign. It’s a week dedicated to empowering the disability community by ensuring equal access to voting, and advocating for the rights of over 38 million eligible voters with disabilities.

During DVRW, the focus is on breaking down barriers that have historically hindered people with disabilities from participating fully in our democratic process. Discriminatory voting practices, limited registration locations, and inadequate resources have historically excluded millions of Americans from exercising their right to vote. To bridge this gap, efforts include providing assistance for voter registration, ensuring equitable access to absentee ballots and applications, and making all polling places accessible to voters with disabilities.

At E4Texas, we understand that education and self-advocacy go hand in hand, and are two things that help our students go on to lead more independent lives. An important part of our program curriculum is teaching our students about disability history, including an emphasis on legislative advocacy. The disability community has overcome many obstacles to exercise their right to vote, and we hope to shed light on this history to encourage our students to become involved themselves. A highlight of the program is the opportunity for our students to visit the Texas State Capitol every year during the summer semester to testify on behalf of a bill of their choosing, exercising their right to participate in the local government. This experience not only deepens their understanding of legislative advocacy, but empowers our students to be active participants in shaping policies that matter to them. Our students get to experience firsthand the power of legislative advocacy, the importance of speaking up for their rights, and how to be effective self-advocates. Similarly, DRVW is another opportunity for the disability community to put these skills into action, and use their voice to through the power of voting.

How to get involved during Disability Voting Rights Week:

1. Check Your Voter Registration: Verify your voter registration status, or register to vote to ensure your voice is heard.
2. Know Your Rights: Learn about your voting rights, and access accommodations and language assistance at the polls.
3. Get Involved: Participate in the Every Voice, Every Vote campaign to strengthen our democracy by encouraging and protecting voter participation.
4. Host an Event: Consider hosting a voter registration or education event to engage your community.
5. Social Media Activism: Raise awareness by activating your social media platforms to promote DVRW and its mission.
6. Spread the Word: Share your thoughts and experiences on DVRW and the importance of activism by writing an op-ed for your local newspaper.
7. Collaborate: Partner with other disability and voting rights organizations to amplify your impact.
8. Engage Local Leaders: Get involved in your local government and encourage town leaders to issue a proclamation for Disability Voting Rights Week.
9. Stay Informed: Visit Vote411.org for state-specific voter information and resources for voters with disabilities.
10. SignVote: If you are part of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community, explore SignVote’s resources and instructional videos in American Sign Language.

Disability Voting Rights Week serves as a reminder that our democracy thrives when everyone actively participates, and it falters when our citizens are excluded. At E4Texas, we are committed to fostering an inclusive society where all individuals, regardless of their abilities, can engage in the democratic process. We encourage our students and the broader community to get involved in DVRW and help shape a more equitable and inclusive future for all.

In closing, remember that every vote counts, and your participation can influence accessibility and issues that matter to voters like you! Whether you have a disability or not, your voice matters. At E4Texas, we are dedicated to supporting and amplifying the voices of all our students as they engage in the democratic process during Disability Voting Rights Week and beyond.

For more information about Disability Voting Rights Week, please visit the American Association of People with Disabilities’ REV UP Voting Campaign website and explore the resources available to make your voice heard. For more information about the E4Texas post-secondary program at the University of Texas-Austin, please visit the E4Texas website, where you can register for our upcoming annual Open House to learn all about this employment-focused transition program! Your journey towards growth and empowerment starts here!

E4Texas Senior Outreach Program Coordinator

Kathleen Hernandez

In a step towards promoting equal access to healthcare and human services, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has just announced a new proposed rule: Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in Programs or Activities Receiving Federal Financial Assistance. This proposed rule aims to strengthen regulations against discrimination on the basis of disability, updating provisions that help people with disabilities access health and human services under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The announcement was made for immediate release yesterday, September 7th, 2023– the week before Disability Voting Rights Week (September 11-15, 2023), and 50 years after the enactment of the Rehabilitation Act, reflecting over 50 years of advocacy by the disability community.

A Milestone in Disability Rights

The proposed new rule would represent an advancement in the ongoing fight for disability rights. For many Americans, especially for those with disabilities, accessing quality healthcare can be a challenge. This rule aims to reduce that challenge, designed to ensure people with disabilities are not subjected to discrimination in any program or activity receiving funding from HHS solely because of their disability. Freedom from disability-based discrimination is a civil right, and that it could very much be a matter of life and death in health and human services programs. It reflects commitment to improve disability rights, and would be a step towards a more inclusive, equitable and accessible healthcare system for all.

Key Provisions of the Proposed Rule:

1. Eliminating Bias: It ensures that medical treatment decisions are not based on biases or stereotypes about individuals with disabilities.
2. Web Accessibility: The rule clarifies obligations for web, mobile, and kiosk accessibility to ensure digital information is available to all.
3. Accessible Medical Equipment: Enforceable standards for accessible medical equipment will be established to enhance healthcare access.
4. Child Welfare Programs: Clarifications are made regarding requirements in HHS-funded child welfare programs and activities.
5. Value Assessment: It prohibits the use of value assessment methods that place a lower value on life-extension for individuals with disabilities.
6. Integrated Services: Clarifications emphasize the obligation to provide services in the most integrated setting appropriate to the needs of individuals with disabilities.

It’s important to note that this rulemaking is still underway. If you believe you or someone else has been discriminated against on the basis of disability, you can file a complaint through the OCR complaint portal here.

At E4Texas, we recognize the significance of such developments in advancing disability rights. We believe in empowering our students to participate fully in society, and advocate for their rights, including in the areas of healthcare and human services.

For more information about the E4Texas inclusive post-secondary program at the University of Texas-Austin, please visit the E4Texas website, where you can register for our upcoming annual Open House to learn all about this employment-focused transition program! Your journey towards growth and empowerment starts here!

The E4Texas summer semester has now concluded, offering students a unique opportunity to delve into important subjects and build crucial skills. With a curriculum that’s thoughtfully designed, E4Texas is committed to fostering growth, empowerment, and community engagement. Let’s take a closer look at what the summer program had in store for our new students:

Summer is always an exciting and busy time for E4Texas. Our new cohort of nine students moved onto campus at the beginning of July and hit the ground running. Students have been exploring UT and the city of Austin. We saw the fireworks at Zilker Park, hung out on the rooftop garden at the Central Library, and celebrated the anniversary of the ADA at ADAPT Headquarters. Students have taken courses in Work Readiness, Independent Living, Healthy Relationships, Disability History, Disability in the Media, and Legislative Advocacy. Additionally, we had a graduate continue into his second year with E4, pursuing his Childcare Certification through UT Austin’s Priscilla Pond Flawn Child and Family Laboratory.

Learning Objectives

The E4Texas summer semester is built on a foundation of 3 essential learning objectives. Over the summer, E4Texas students will:

1. Enhance their understanding of disability history, providing a foundation for self-advocacy skills.
2. Develop their independent living skills, enabling them to lead more self-sufficient lives.
3. Strengthen their ability to collaborate within teams– a skill that’s invaluable in any context, but will be especially important as students proceed through the program in pursuit of employment in their chosen career field.

A Comprehensive Approach

The summer semester comprises four key components that ensure a well-rounded educational experience:

1. Core Learning Outcomes: E4Texas staff performs daily student assessments on our 5 core learning outcomes for every student: Communication, workplace professionalism, problem-solving, building connections, and professional appearance. These daily assessments offer real-time insights into students’ growth, which is crucial not just for academic progress but also for data-driven personal and professional development.
2. Group Disability History Project: An introduction to disability history creates an understanding of the challenges faced and the victories achieved. This project sheds light on the legislative journey toward inclusion.
3. Legislative Advocacy Testimony: Students explore self-advocacy by practicing their advocacy skills at the Texas Capitol at the end of the Summer semester. Their empowered voices contribute to shaping policies that matter to them.
4. Classroom Assignments: From in-class activities and discussions to quizzes, tests, projects, and community engagement, these assignments provide an engaging curriculum.

Want to learn more about the E4Texas post-secondary program at the University of Texas-Austin? Register for our annual Open House to learn all about this employment-focused transition program!  For additional information, visit our website or email our Program Outreach Coordinator at Kathleen.Hernandez@austin.UTexas.edu. Your journey towards growth and empowerment starts here!

E4Texas Senior Outreach Program Coordinator

Kathleen Hernandez

As Texas experiences an aging boom and an increase in individuals with disabilities, the demand for personal care attendants has skyrocketed. These compassionate individuals play a vital role in helping people with disabilities or chronic illnesses maintain their independence and improve their quality of life. In this post, we will review the growing demand for personal care attendants and how the E4Texas program is making a positive impact in addressing this critical need.

The Growing Need for Personal Care Attendants:

Texas is at the forefront of an aging population, with both older Texans and elderly individuals from across the nation choosing the state as their home for their golden years. As residents age, their health may decline, necessitating assistance with daily living tasks. Individuals with physical disabilities may also utilize personal care attendants to support them in their daily routines, such as dressing, bathing, and transportation. These attendants empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives within their communities and contribute to society. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of home health and personal care aides is projected to grow 25% through 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Enter: The E4Texas Program

The E4Texas program helps address the growing need for personal care attendants by providing a structured career training track that equips students interested in a career as a personal care attendant with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to meet the demands of the role. Through classroom instruction, hands-on experience, and access to community partners, the program prepares students to deliver high-quality care and support to members in the community seeking care. By actively engaging with the community and fostering partnerships, E4Texas empowers students to find job placement and career advancement, ensuring a supply of qualified personal care attendants to meet the increasing demand in the field year after year.

Recruitment and Training:

The E4Texas program aims to attract people with or without a disability, who are over the age of 18, who have a high school diploma, and are employment-focused in the areas of Personal Care Attendant, Child Care Attendant, or Paraprofessional. Through targeted recruitment efforts and partnerships with community organizations, E4Texas encourages students to consider a career as a personal care attendant as a means of developing a more independent life with a rewarding role. The program highlights the flexibility and rewarding nature of this career, emphasizing the positive impact attendants can make in the lives for whom they care.

Conclusion:

As the demand for personal care attendants continues to rise in Texas, the E4Texas program serves as a community asset connecting students with the opportunity to fill an in-demand role. Students attending E4Texas are offered specialized career training in a growing field so they can develop marketable skills, and go on to lead a fulfilling, independent life in a career in which they can be proud. The program’s dedication to enhancing the workforce in this field is an important part of meeting the growing demand and improving the overall well-being of students interested in pursuing this career path.

To learn more about the E4Texas program, please visit our website or email kathleen.hernandez@austin.utexas.edu

E4Texas Senior Outreach Program Coordinator

Kathleen Hernandez

In a world where opportunities for individuals with disabilities are expanding, E4Texas stands as a beacon of empowerment. The program at the University of Texas at Austin is transforming the lives of students with and without disabilities, providing them with the tools, support, and resources they need to excel. In this post, we’ll explore how E4Texas is breaking barriers, fostering independence, and unlocking the hidden potential within each student.

Embracing Inclusion:

At the heart of E4Texas is the belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive. The program creates an inclusive environment where students with disabilities can engage in educational and career-building experiences. By removing societal barriers and promoting a culture of acceptance, the E4Texas program empowers students to embrace their unique abilities and pursue their passions.

Building Skills for Success:

The E4Texas program goes beyond traditional academic instruction. It provides students with a comprehensive set of skills that pave a path to success in the workforce. From developing independent living skills to honing professional competencies, the program equips students with the practical tools they need to navigate real-life challenges. Through classroom instruction, hands-on training, and practical experiences, students gain the confidence to excel in their chosen career fields.

Navigating the Path to Employment:

One of the primary goals of E4Texas is to prepare students for meaningful employment. Recognizing the importance of career readiness, the program offers three specialized career training tracks tailored to the interests and abilities of each student. Whether it’s becoming a paraprofessional, a child care attendant, or a personal care attendant, the E4Texas program ensures students are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel.

Mentorship and Support:

The journey to success is rarely traveled alone! E4Texas provides students with invaluable mentorship and support throughout their journey. Mentors are available to offer students guidance, encouragement, and practical advice. These mentors (many of whom are UT-Austin students or E4Texas program alumni) play a vital role in helping students navigate challenges, set goals, and unleash their full potential. With a strong support system in place, students can overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams.

Celebrating Success Stories:

Behind every successful E4Texas graduate lies an inspiring story of perseverance and triumph. These success stories serve as beacons of hope, showing what can be achieved when determination meets opportunity. The program takes pride in celebrating the accomplishments of its students, highlighting their achievements, and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. Through storytelling and testimonials, E4Texas spreads a message of empowerment and encourages others to embrace their own potential:

“Our grandson is a changed man. Thank you once again for the exceptional program E4Texas. The cute little lizards have grown into dragons, and baby they are on fire! Their lives, their families lives, and their community will never be the same. The confidence, the independence, their own significance and their can-do attitude could only be attributed to the program. Your work has positively impacted many lives. We are forever grateful!“

-Program Graduate Family Member

Conclusion:

The E4Texas program is a catalyst for change, transforming the lives of students and empowering them to excel. By fostering an inclusive environment, providing career training, and offering mentorship and support, the program opens doors to a world of opportunities. Each success story is a testament to the transformative power of the E4Texas. As we continue to break barriers, embrace diversity, and unlock potential, we pave the way for a future where individuals with and without disabilities thrive and succeed on their own terms.

To learn more about the E4Texas program, please visit our website or email kathleen.hernandez@austin.utexas.edu

E4Texas Senior Outreach Program Coordinator

Kathleen Hernandez

On July 26th, 1990, a landmark piece of legislation was passed that forever changed the lives of millions of Americans with disabilities – The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Today, we celebrate the 33rd anniversary of this historic legislation. Fittingly, the E4Texas students embarked on a meaningful visit to ADAPT of Texas, a grassroots disability rights organization that has been at the forefront of advocating for accessibility and inclusion.

ADAPT, formerly known as “Americans Disabled for Attendant Programs Today” and “Americans Disabled for Accessible Public Transit,” has chapters in 30 states and Washington, D.C. The organization was founded in 1983 initially with the mission of making wheelchair-accessible lifts mandatory on public buses. Through their advocacy, including several protests and legal battles, ADAPT’s efforts were instrumental in securing this provision as part of the ADA’s passage.

During their visit today, the E4Texas students learned more about ADAPT’s remarkable journey and their achievements in advancing disability rights. From the early days of demanding accessible public transportation, to their ongoing advocacy efforts, ADAPT has been a driving force behind positive change in the lives of individuals with disabilities, and a local opportunity for advocates to get involved.

The ADA has been a transformative piece of legislation, working towards equitable opportunities for people with disabilities in various aspects of life, including employment, transportation, and public accommodations. But we know the work is far from over. ADAPT continues to be a leading voice, fighting for disability rights, and promoting a society that embraces diversity and accessibility.

As we celebrate the 33rd anniversary of the ADA, today we also recognize organizations like ADAPT of Texas, whose dedication to advocating for disability rights have paved the way for a more inclusive future. The E4Texas program stands with these programs, reaffirming our commitment to creating a world where everyone, regardless of ability, can be Empowered, Educated, Employed, and EXCEL in life! 🌟🤝

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