Necco Center Puts Jobs First

Necco Center Puts Employment First

Employers are now looking to a new Necco Center program to create efficiencies in their workforce.  The program, Community Rehabilitation, was developed in response to a need for individuals with developmental disabilities, who may face barriers to employment, to receive employment supports.  In addition, employers would be matched with dependable, trustworthy employees focusing on their abilities.  The program now works with both individuals and employers in Lawrence, Scioto, Jackson, Gallia and Adams Counties.

Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) works with partners in business, education and non-profit organizations to facilitate customized employment plans for Ohioans with disabilities and help Ohio companies recruit and retain employees with disabilities.  One of the ways they achieve this is through the Employment First Program.


Necco Center provides the services that fall under the Employment First umbrella: person-centered career planning, vocational rehabilitation, and performance-based job development that lead to successful, long-term job matches. Community Rehabilitation program also provides assessments, job coaching and long-term follow-along supports.  These services allow individuals to achieve gainful employment, experience independence and employers to diversify their workforce.

Dusty Bryant is a Job Coach with Necco’s Community Rehabilitation Program.  She works to break down barriers for individuals and identify their strengths, helping them find enjoyable employment.  "Our individuals deserve the opportunity to show their full potential.” 

A diverse workforce is only one of the benefits to hiring an individual with a disability.  Research has shown that:

  • Individuals with disabilities stay in the job longer, which improves retention.
  • People tend to do more business with places that have a diverse workforce.
  • Disabled workers are a virtually untapped labor market.

In addition to these benefits, employers often enjoy tax incentives while finding the talent needed to succeed and grow their business.

It is a win/win for everyone involved.  And what does Necco Center like to do?  Celebrate Wins!

Elizabeth Cremeans, Community Rehabilitation Team Lead, shares how businesses and individuals in 5 counties can benefit from this program.  “We have a dedicated team eager to partner with employers seeking reliable staff and eager individuals who have achieved job readiness.”

If your business is interested in partnering with a winning team, email Elizabeth Cremeans ecremeans@neccocenter.org .