Work Incentives Transition Network: Collaborators

    Institute on Transition, University of Minnesota

    Increasing the Use of Work Incentives by Youth Through the Transition Process

    The University of Minnesota-Institute on Community Integration's SSI Work incentives Project is a research and demonstration project developed in collaboration with school personnel, youth, parents, centers for independent living, parent information centers, local and regional social security offices, and a panel of national experts. The project will examine whether transition information sharing and educational activities about SSI benefits and work incentives directed to youth, their families, school personnel and adult care providers can:
    • increase the number of youth and their families who are aware of SSI benefits and work incentives as part of the transition process;
    • increase the number of potentially eligible SSI recipients (youth) who apply for SSI benefits and work incentives; and
    • increase the number of youth who are employed and using SSI work incentives to enhance their employment options and quality of living.

    The project currently operates in two Minnesota sites, one rural and one urban. Two Maryland sites will be added in the second year. Site research teams with ICI Transition Services staff will:
    1. study and consider strategies for identifying and overcoming barriers to accessing and using SSI work incentives,
    2. develop and implement transition activities (training and technical assistance) on SSI benefits and work incentives, and
    3. evaluate the impact of training and technical assistance on transition planning, work incentive utilization, employment status, and satisfaction.

    Materials for systems change projects will be available nationally through the National Transition Network. Materials for parents will be available nationally at the Parent Training and Information Centers through PACER Center's, The Alliance.

    Project Coordinator: Dr. Ellie J. Emanuel
    University of Minnesota
    Institute on Community Integration
    101A Pattee Hall
    150 Pillsbury Drive S.E.
    Minneapolis, MN 55455
    612-625-7519 Voice
    612-624-9344 Fax
    E-mail: emanu003@tc.umn.edu
    Web site National Transition Network

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