The Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities (BPDD) has issued two Requests for Proposals (RFP). The RFPs both address BPDD’s employment goal to double the number of people with developmental disabilities who are both participating in Long-Term Care and have community-integrated jobs.

RFP #1: The Wisconsin Employment First Initiative

Employment First is a growing grassroots movement focusing on integrated, community–based employment earning at or above minimum wage as the first and preferred option of youth and adults with disabilities.  Many states have launched successful Employment First campaigns to expand public support and drive local and state policy in ways that further support integrated employment for all, regardless of disability. The purpose of this initiative is to partner with multiple stakeholders, including people with disabilities, families, providers, community organizations, businesses, and the public to implement an Employment Fist Initiative in Wisconsin. Go here for the RFP.

RFP #2: The SDS and Integrated Employment Innovation Project

he purpose of this project is to build on the strengths of self-determination and Self-Directed Supports (SDS) in Wisconsin to improve employment outcomes for people with developmental disabilities. Self-determination is an essential element for enhancing individual control and involvement in employment, and ultimately job satisfaction and success. This project will develop, pilot, and evaluate an “Innovative SDS and Integrated Employment model” in Wisconsin that combines the key principles and practices of SDS with best practices in Integrated Employment to assist people with developmental disabilities in obtaining integrated employment in the community. Go here for the RFP.

Proposals must be submitted no later than 5 p.m. on Monday, February 20, 2012. For questions or additional information, contact Ann Sievert at ann.sievert@wisconsin.gov.