Project Grant H421E230028

The Maine Department of Labor's Division of Vocational Rehabilitation has been awarded a $7,632,256 Disability Innovation Fund (CFDA 84.421) grant from the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services for the "Maine's Pathway to Partnerships Innovative Model Demonstration Project." This 5-year project grant, awarded on October 1, 2023, will support the division's efforts to develop and implement innovative models for improving outcomes and increasing employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities in Maine. The project aims to promote the inclusion and integration of people with disabilities into the mainstream by offering comprehensive vocational rehabilitation and independent living services, including assessments, career counseling, skills training, job placement assistance, supported employment, workplace accommodations, and independent living support. As the state government entity overseeing the administration of this federal grant program, the Maine Department of Labor will work collaboratively with state and local partners to implement the proposed innovative strategies and demonstrate their effectiveness in enhancing accessibility and employment for individuals with disabilities throughout the state.