LOOKING FOR ASSISTANCE
The Health Care Authority’s mission is: We ensure that New Mexicans attain their highest level of health by providing whole-person, cost-effective, accessible, and high-quality health care and safety-net services.
Employment First
Access to work is a civil right. This means everyone has the right to work. No matter what challenges you face, you can work if you are given the chance and the right support. You make your own decisions.
Employment Tales
The Developmental Disabilities Supports Division (DDSD) is celebrating the success of New Mexicans with intellectual and developmental disabilities at work through the Employment Tales series.
“I enjoy my job because I can learn new things every day, and every day I work with my coworkers it makes me realize that we work together to make new strong work relationships, and they accept me for who l am by using good attitude towards other people. Working at this job is a great feeling because we can work together to finish it and share the best attitude with each other. “ – V.B.
DDSD wants to celebrate your successes! By sharing your employment tale, you can join DDSD in encouraging more people to explore how they can contribute to their local economy and build a pathway to economic stability.
Do you want to share your employment story?
Here is how:
- Take a picture at work (with permission, if you are not the person).
- Write a summary, no more than 5 sentences, about what you do and why you enjoy working.
- Submit both to: Lizette.Lujan@hca.nm.gov
Why get a job?
There are many benefits to having a job and working. These benefits include but are not limited to:
- Money to spend or save
- Growth and skill development
- Increased self-determination
- Employer benefits like paid leave
How can waiver supports help me?
For people on the Developmental Disabilities Waiver, Mi Via Waiver, and State General Funded programs, there are specialized services to help you at a job. Employment support staff are trained to help you perform well at work. Ask about employment at your next planning meeting.
If I get a job, can I keep my waiver supports?
Yes! Home and Community-Based Services waiver funding can continue to support you when you have earned income. It is best to receive individualized benefits advisement. Resources to help you plan for and make good financial decisions are available through the Social Security Administration and the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation.
Resources To Get Started
PFE is a collaboration between DDSD and the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (NMDVR). Based at the University of new Mexico’s Center for Development and Disability (UNM CDD), PFE provides training and resources to support quality employment support services.
Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (NMDVR)
A state-federal agency that helps New Mexicans with disabilities prepare for, find, and keep competitive integrated employment via counseling, training, job placement, and support services. Submit an online referral
Department of Workforce Solutions (DWS)
The New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions strives to be a leader in improving employment and poverty rates through workforce development, enhanced services for employers, and ensuring fair labor practices and workforce protections for New Mexicans. See resources for job seekers or learn more about workforce sectors in New Mexico.
Contact the Statewide Community Inclusion & Employment Unit to learn more:
Alix Dean
Statewide Community Inclusion and Employment Lead
(505) 819-7346
Lizette Lujan
Statewide Community Inclusion and Employment Coordinator
(505) 470-0279