Employment Services Under 245D: Support for Finding Work That Fits

A job is more than a paycheck — it's structure, pride, and a place in the community. Minnesota's waivers fund three distinct employment services, and understanding the difference helps you ask for the right one.

Employment exploration services

For someone who isn't sure what kind of work they'd like, exploration offers real experiences: workplace tours, job shadows, informational interviews, and conversations about interests and strengths. The outcome is an informed choice about whether and where to pursue community employment.

Employment development services

This is the job hunt, done together — building a resume, practicing interviews, filling out applications, and connecting with employers who are actually hiring. Development services also help with negotiating schedules and accommodations so the job starts on solid footing.

Employment support services

Getting the job is half the story; keeping it is the other half. Support services provide on-the-job coaching that fades as confidence grows, plus ongoing check-ins with the person — and, where helpful, the employer — so small issues never become resignation letters.

Who can use these services

Employment services are available through Minnesota's disability waivers and are authorized in the person's support plan with their case manager. They pair naturally with in-home supports: skills like getting up on time, managing a bus route, and budgeting a paycheck are all part of working life.

Goodtimes Home Care provides all three employment services across the Twin Cities metro. If work is one of your goals — or your family member's — we'd love to help you take the first step.