RSA supports the disability community by creating and administering multiple employment initiatives.

The District established a local chapter of Association of People Supporting EmploymentFirst (APSE) in 2012. APSE was founded in 1988 and is the only national organization with an exclusive focus on integrated employment and career advancement opportunities for people with disabilities.

APSE currently has chapters in 35 states, and promotes employment opportunities for all people through local, regional, and national networks; helps establish and expand equitable employment opportunities for people with disabilities; advocates with federal, state, and local legislators for legislation promoting integrated employment; works with federal, state, and local policymakers to increase funding for integrated employment; raises awareness within the business community about the benefits of employing a diverse workforce, including people with disabilities; and advocates for social change to support long-term employment with competitive salaries for people, regardless of the type and severity of their disabilities, so that they can contribute to area businesses and lead fulfilling, satisfying lives. 

The 24th Annual National APSE Conference was held June 25-27, 2013, and the next one will be held again in June 2014. Find out more about their annual conference.

To learn more about APSE in general, visit www.apse.org or DC’s APSE chapter.