Latest news with #TicketToWork
Forbes
2 days ago
- Health
- Forbes
Self-Care Strategies For Sustaining A Career With A Disability
Building a career can be deeply rewarding boosting confidence and self-worth. But it can also lead to stress and anxiety-- sometimes enough to cause burnout or a loss of direction. If working with a disability, the experience can be even more complex due to added obstacles. These challenges often require a proactive and intentional self-care Your Footing If you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and are exploring a return to work, the Ticket to Work (TTW) Program offers valuable support and stress-reduction resources. This often-overlooked benefit offers a safety net, allowing you to explore employment without risking your SSDI benefits if work doesn't pan out. SSA-authorized Employment Networks and Vocational Rehabilitation agencies provide job search assistance and related services that can make the TTW Program work for you. As helpful as the Ticket To Work Program is, it doesn't fully close gap between well-being and burnout. Reentering the workplace often means balancing job performance with managing your disability— a dual challenge many face. The challenge is real: nearly 8 in 10 people with disabilities report feeling burned out. Energy limitations, coordinating healthcare schedules and securing accommodations can all undermine even your best efforts to stay productive. There's also the 'invisible labor' of masking (trying to hide your condition or limitations to avoid judgement, either consciously or not) and the added task of advocating for yourself at work. Developing Self-Focus Countering these challenges starts with building and maintaining a self-care regimen. For some, the term 'self-care' can feel uncomfortable—especially when self-focus feels indulgent. If you see self-care as a luxury or something reserved for your spare time, consider reframing it as essential to long-term success. Effective self-care goes beyond enjoyable activities. It requires a comprehensive approach tailored to your physical, emotional and environmental needs. They are most beneficial when practiced consistently, rather than left behind and low on your priority list. There are a multitude of ways to promote physical well-being, such as: Building your emotional and mental resilience can take many forms, for instance by: Cultivating Supportive Environments Another way to support your well-being is by evaluating the different spaces in your life—typically private (home and family), public (social life and community) and work. Consider how each space can be adjusted to better support your well-being. Being Intentional With – And For - Yourself Using the SSA's Ticket To Work Program through an authorized Employment Network or Vocational Rehabilitation agency is a strong step toward greater financial independence and improved well-being. Pairing that support with an intentional, consistent self-care plan tailored to your needs can help you close the gap between surviving and thriving. Reaching your goals becomes more attainable and at less costly when you start with the person who can help the most – you.
Forbes
18-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
As Seasonal Hiring: Tools To Help You Return To Work
Social Security's Ticket to Work Program (TTW), with its trial work period allows participants to ... More try getting back to work without fear of losing their benefits for a period of time and offers help from professional employment specialists. As summer ends, fall hiring season brings new opportunities for job seekers — especially those reentering the workforce after a disability-related break. Many industries ramp up staffing needs ahead of the holiday season or fiscal year-end, and the Ticket to Work Program can help eligible individuals navigate this transition with confidence. Social Security's Ticket to Work Program (TTW), with its trial work period allows participants to try getting back to work without fear of losing their benefits for a period of time and offers help from professional employment specialists. Where The Jobs Are This Fall Certain industries consistently see a spike in hiring during the fall months, driven by seasonal demand, business expansion or year-end operational planning. Job seekers — especially those using the Ticket to Work Program — can take advantage of these surges by targeting high-growth sectors and using the right tools to uncover opportunities. Among the leaders: Retail and e-commerce: Holiday sales lead to increased hiring in customer service, merchandising, fulfillment and logistics. Start by searching seasonal roles on major job boards like Indeed, Snagajob or company websites such as Amazon, Target or UPS. Filter by 'seasonal,' 'remote,' or 'flexible hours' to find roles that suit your needs. Holiday sales lead to increased hiring in customer service, merchandising, fulfillment and logistics. Start by searching seasonal roles on major job boards like Indeed, Snagajob or company websites such as Amazon, Target or UPS. Filter by 'seasonal,' 'remote,' or 'flexible hours' to find roles that suit your needs. Healthcare: Hospitals, clinics and long-term care facilities often bring on additional staff to manage higher patient volumes and reduce backlogs before the new year. Consider positions such as medical records clerks, telehealth assistants or patient service representatives, many of which may offer part-time or remote options. Check local hospital websites and explore listings on Health eCareers. Hospitals, clinics and long-term care facilities often bring on additional staff to manage higher patient volumes and reduce backlogs before the new year. Consider positions such as medical records clerks, telehealth assistants or patient service representatives, many of which may offer part-time or remote options. Check local hospital websites and explore listings on Health eCareers. Education and childcare: With the school year in full swing, demand rises for substitute teachers, aides and after-school care workers. Reach out to your local school district or educational staffing agencies like Kelly Education. Websites like Schoolspring also list flexible, part-time roles in K–12 settings. With the school year in full swing, demand rises for substitute teachers, aides and after-school care workers. Reach out to your local school district or educational staffing agencies like Kelly Education. Websites like Schoolspring also list flexible, part-time roles in K–12 settings. Transportation and warehousing: Shipping and logistics companies boost staffing for last-mile delivery and warehouse operations to meet peak volume. These roles often require minimal experience and may include flexible hours or short-term contracts. Search opportunities with major employers like FedEx, Amazon and DHL on JobsInLogistics. Shipping and logistics companies boost staffing for last-mile delivery and warehouse operations to meet peak volume. These roles often require minimal experience and may include flexible hours or short-term contracts. Search opportunities with major employers like FedEx, Amazon and DHL on JobsInLogistics. Professional services: Consulting firms and corporate teams add temporary workers to meet end-of-year project deadlines and prepare for Q1 planning. Common roles include administrative support, data entry, customer service and accounting assistance. Websites like FlexJobs and Robert Half offer curated listings for remote and temporary professional roles. In addition, individuals using the Ticket to Work Program can work with an Employment Network (EN) to receive personalized job leads, resume feedback and interview support. These seasonal upticks create a timely window for job seekers to reconnect with employers who are actively expanding their teams — and to take the next step toward long-term employment. How To Prepare Now Taking proactive steps can help job seekers position themselves for success in the fall job market: Refresh your resume: Highlight transferable skills and accomplishments that show adaptability, time management and resilience — especially if returning to the workforce after a health-related absence. Highlight transferable skills and accomplishments that show adaptability, time management and resilience — especially if returning to the workforce after a health-related absence. Search strategically: Consider part-time, remote or flexible-schedule roles. These may better align with disability-related needs and serve as steppingstones to permanent employment. Consider part-time, remote or flexible-schedule roles. These may better align with disability-related needs and serve as steppingstones to permanent employment. Practice interview skills: Prepare to discuss gaps in employment assertively. Decide in advance whether and how to disclose a disability. Practicing with a trusted mentor, disability advocate or employment specialist can build confidence. Free tools are available through CareerOneStop's Interview Practice Resources. Prepare to discuss gaps in employment assertively. Decide in advance whether and how to disclose a disability. Practicing with a trusted mentor, disability advocate or employment specialist can build confidence. Free tools are available through CareerOneStop's Interview Practice Resources. Know your rights: Understanding the basics of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and how to request reasonable accommodations can ease anxiety and improve interview outcomes. Resources are available through the ADA National Network. Understanding the basics of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and how to request reasonable accommodations can ease anxiety and improve interview outcomes. Resources are available through the ADA National Network. Leverage support services: Employment Networks (ENs), state Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies and other disability service providers can help with job matching, resume writing and interview preparation. You can find help through the Choose Work website. Employment Networks (ENs), state Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies and other disability service providers can help with job matching, resume writing and interview preparation. You can find help through the Choose Work website. Explore assistive technology: Screen readers, speech-to-text software and ergonomic tools can enhance productivity. Many ENs can help assess your needs and provide recommendations for requesting these tools on the job. The Ticket to Work Program Advantage If you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the Ticket to Work Program offers free employment support services tailored to your goals and abilities. Benefits include: Risk-free trial work periods: The program allows you to explore employment while maintaining your existing benefits during a designated period, giving you the opportunity to test your ability to work without added financial pressure. Learn more at SSA's Trial Work Period Guide. The program allows you to explore employment while maintaining your existing benefits during a designated period, giving you the opportunity to test your ability to work without added financial pressure. Learn more at SSA's Trial Work Period Guide. Personalized support: Program providers offer help with job coaching, resume building, interview skills, and benefits counseling to help you plan your return to work. Program providers offer help with job coaching, resume building, interview skills, and benefits counseling to help you plan your return to work. Workplace accommodations guidance: Ticket to Work Program professionals can help you understand your rights and communicate accommodation requests to potential employers. Ticket to Work Program professionals can help you understand your rights and communicate accommodation requests to potential employers. Financial stability: Many participants gradually increase their earnings and reduce their reliance on SSDI benefits, gaining more financial independence over time. Fall Into Momentum Fall can offer more than a change in weather — it can mark a turning point. For job seekers with disabilities, this season presents a timely opportunity to reenter the workforce with confidence. By combining thoughtful preparation with the comprehensive support of the Ticket to Work Program, individuals can pursue meaningful employment that fits their goals and abilities. What begins as a seasonal role can lead to lasting career growth, increased financial security and greater independence.
Forbes
01-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Career Coaching: How Professional Guidance Elevates Your Job Search
Employment Networks (EN) and state Vocational Rehabilitation agencies (VR) are here to provide that ... More critical assistance through the Ticket To Work (TTW) Program. Vocational professionals provide a comprehensive approach every step of the way that creates confidence and helps you to overcome barriers and find a position that works for you. For those returning to work after recovering from a serious injury or disability, the journey can feel arduous. The process requires determination, perseverance and personalized guidance. For many, returning to the workforce can feel intimidating, from creating a competitive resume to understanding the Social Security Administration's (SSA) rules for working while protecting Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. Employment Networks (EN) and state Vocational Rehabilitation agencies (VR) are here to provide that critical assistance through the Ticket To Work (TTW) Program. Vocational professionals provide a comprehensive approach every step of the way that creates confidence and helps you to overcome barriers and find a position that works for you. If you have decided to return to the workforce, the support of a Social Security-authorized service provider is an important next step. Whether you plan to return to your previous role or find a new one, vocational experts can provide career coaching that helps you clarify goals, build skills and succeed in today's job market with expert support for your specific needs. Career Coaching In The Ticket To Work Program Career coaching is more than just sending along job openings—it's customized assistance tailored to help you identify your goals, prepare for a new role, and succeed. Through the TTW Program, ENs provide free one-on-one coaching, specific to your unique background and job aspirations. Vocational experts assist at every step of your return to work. In this article, we'll examine how they help with skills assessment and goal setting, your job search and interview preparation. Skills Assessment & Goal Setting Your EN may begin the coaching with a skills and interest assessment. They'll help you review your job history, education, personal interests, and find transferrable skills that will work across industries or positions. For example, if you had a physical job like painting or welding, you could now be looking for a role with less exertion in an office. The goal is to find your strengths and match them with job possibilities that align with your interests and abilities. Once your ENs understands your skills and goals, they'll help you create reasonable short- and long-term career goals. Your Individual Work Plan (IWP) is a personalized roadmap of the steps you'll take to find and maintain employment. This process can help you envision a future thatprovides the necessary structure to move into your job search with purpose and determination Strategic Job Search Once your vocational expert has helped you create your IWP, they'll assist you in constructing a job search strategy that works in today's evolving job market. This professional support gives you tips and techniques to focus your search where it matters most. Your vocational expert offers help with: Interview Preparation Many people find job interviews intimidating, and even more so when faced with discussing employment gaps with prospective employers. Your vocational expert assists with interview preparation by: Clients tell me that their interview prep helps them feel more confident and ready to make a positive impression. The Real-Life Impact Of Returning To Work With An EN ENs nationwide have helped thousands of former workers return to the workforce. Each person's story recounts how vocational support transforms lives. These clients have shared their positive experiences working with vocational experts at their ticketed EN. Michael Smith, a military veteran who returned to work feels his EN made his return to work less stressful. 'You need that support and want that support, throw that stress out the window and let someone else take care of it.' Marshalla Cofer reflects on her EN experience this way, 'You have no idea the relief that gives me. It's hard to even put into words. It's life changing and such a mental relief for a person with a brain injury to … have the services in place to help us.' Thousands of people who work with ENs and state VRs have gained renewed confidence and financial stability due to the guidance they've received. Career coaching through the Ticket to Work Program provides more than advice. It's an empowering partnership that helps you to achieve your goal of returning to work. From skills assessment to realistic goal setting, to a strategic job search and the latest interview preparation, vocational experts at ENs and VRs are here to help you with aspects of your return-to-work journey.
Forbes
18-06-2025
- Business
- Forbes
How Assistive Technologies Are Transforming The Workplace
Adding to that focus is the range of programs and incentives designed to help recipients of Social ... More Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) reenter the workforce. The Social Security Administration's (SSA) Ticket to Work Program, along with SSA-authorized Employment Networks (EN) and state Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies, provides support; empowering individuals to return to work while protecting their benefits. The number of people with disabilities returning to the workplace has been steadily increasing over the last 10 years. This has brought greater focus to both job seeking and maintaining employment, with great strides made in both areas. Adding to that focus is the range of programs and incentives designed to help recipients of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) reenter the workforce. The Social Security Administration's (SSA) Ticket to Work Program, along with SSA-authorized Employment Networks (EN) and state Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies, provides support; empowering individuals to return to work while protecting their benefits. This increase has also brought greater focus to assistive technology. As demand has grown, a wider range of equipment and software has become available to maintain or improve the functional capabilities of people with disabilities. Advancements in technology have changed what is possible, supporting individuals as they reestablish themselves, thrive in the workplace, participate more fully in the economy and work toward greater financial stability. Increasing Potential By Meeting Needs Beyond mobility assistance, assistive technology has evolved to address sensory, cognitive and neurodiverse needs. A wider range of purpose-built tools is now available for individuals with visual and hearing impairments, such as screen magnifiers, screen readers or real-time captioning. Additionally, applications designed for dyslexia or reading/writing disabilities help bridge the gaps in expression, communication and interacting with information. These technologies offer alternative ways for individuals to engage with tasks and environments that might otherwise present barriers. By minimizing barriers related to traditional productivity standards, assistive tools can empower people to perform at their full potential. More Tools For More Tasks Assistive technology has expanded significantly into the software space, with many systems designed specifically for users with disabilities, such as speech-to-text programs, screen readers and accessible apps. Even mainstream technologies are being adapted for assistive use; for example, noise-canceling headphones can help individuals with sensory sensitivities improve focus, and adjustable lighting can reduce sensory overload. Ergonomics have grown in popularity, with an increased focus on meeting physical needs evident in the rise of ergonomic desks, chairs and workstation accessories. The availability and variety of adaptive keyboards, trackballs, joystick mice and touchpads have increased significantly compared to a decade ago. Growth That Benefits Everyone The benefits of assistive technology used to be understood as solely realized by the individual using them. In fact, their value extends to businesses, consumers and the greater workforce. The benefits for businesses are substantial when investment is made in assistive technology. Productivity rises when focused attention on business needs replaces distraction, limitations and reduced participation. Additionally, assistive technology can lead to lower absenteeism and higher employee retention, both major points of cost for most companies. Workplace culture benefits as well. People with disabilities are generally regarded to be more productive, possess higher creativity and problem solving skills (tied to meeting the challenges of living with a disability) and have less turnover. Adding more of these traits into the work environment increases their representation, raising standards throughout the working population. Co-workers benefit directly from that influence, elevating their own performance while businesses realize stronger, more dynamic teams. The growth of assistive technology has contributed to creating more inclusive and user-friendly workspaces for everyone, not just people with disabilities. There are workplaces that view assistive technology not just as a tool for people with disabilities, but as a resource that can benefit anyone seeking to improve their work performance. Engaging With More Opportunity The rise of assistive technology has widened the playing field, creating more ways for people to engage, participate, contribute – and grow. Combined with programs like Ticket to Work and the support of ENs and VR agencies, individuals with disabilities have more opportunities than ever, and the economy at large continues to realize gains across the board.
Forbes
03-06-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Flexible Jobs & Internships Support Career Growth For Disabled Workers
Part-time positions, internships and temporary roles offer an accessible entry points. These ... More flexible opportunities provide structure, income and hands-on experience while allowing individuals to manage their health needs. With the support of federal programs like Ticket to Work (TTW), individuals with disabilities have resources that help them re-enter the workforce on their terms. Returning to work after a medical condition or long-term absence can be a complex decision. For individuals receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), the process often involves more than just finding a job; it can also involve rebuilding confidence, testing capabilities and identifying the right work environment. Part-time positions, internships and temporary roles offer an accessible entry points. These flexible opportunities provide structure, income and hands-on experience while allowing individuals to manage their health needs. With the support of federal programs like Ticket to Work (TTW), individuals with disabilities have resources that help them re-enter the workforce on their terms. Short-term and flexible roles—such as internships, part-time jobs or project-based contracts—can serve as practical stepping stones. These positions often allow individuals to re-familiarize themselves with workplace routines, re-engage with peers and explore potential career interests. Internships are a proven strategy for expanding access to employment. The Employer Assistance and Resource Network (EARN) emphasizes the value of structured programs that offer skill development, workplace exposure and meaningful experience. EARN also offers tools to help employers create internships that are accessible and impactful for both job seekers and organizations. For individuals with disabilities looking to enter or re-enter the workforce, flexible roles offer more than short-term employment—they provide essential exposure to workplace culture, skill-building opportunities and an important first step toward career advancement and financial independence. Flexible work arrangements—such as reduced hours, remote options or modified tasks—are often essential for individuals managing ongoing health considerations. These accommodations can ease the transition back to work and help reduce the risk of setbacks. Organizations such as the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) offer guidance on how flexible work structures can support accessibility in the workplace. In conjunction with employment supports like those found through the Ticket to Work Program, individuals can explore options while receiving benefits counseling and employment coaching. Internships and temporary roles also offer a low-pressure opportunity to update or develop skills in a changing job market. These may include technical proficiencies—such as software or equipment training—or interpersonal competencies like communication and problem-solving. Programs such as Project SEARCH have demonstrated success in helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities gain meaningful employment following hands-on internships in healthcare, government and education sectors. Even part-time roles that appear entry-level can provide exposure to workplace systems, teamwork and time management—all of which support future growth. Flexible employment can eventually lead to permanent opportunities. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, nearly 60% of interns in structured programs are offered jobs, a trend that increasingly includes workers with disabilities when customizable strategies are applied. For those eligible for SSDI, the Ticket to Work Program offers work incentives that support a gradual return to employment: These critical supports help reduce financial uncertainty and make the path back to work more manageable. Employment Networks (ENs) can also play a key role in this process. These organizations partner with the Social Security Administration to provide free support services through the Ticket to Work Program. ENs assist with setting career goals, finding job opportunities and maintaining employment, all while offering guidance on how working may affect benefits. By working with an EN, individuals receive personalized support that helps make the transition back to work more manageable. The rise of remote and hybrid work models has opened new opportunities for individuals with disabilities by reducing transportation barriers, enabling customized work environments, and offering greater flexibility in managing health-related needs. For many, the option to work from home has made it possible to participate in the workforce when traditional settings may have posed challenges. Organizations such as the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) provide guidance for implementing effective remote work policies. These include clearly defined communication protocols, access to assistive technology and flexible scheduling practices—all of which support productivity and employee well-being. Platforms like FlexJobs also help connect job seekers with remote and flexible opportunities by partnering with employers committed to offering legitimate, accessible work-from-home roles across a range of industries. When thoughtfully designed, remote and hybrid roles can be a practical solution that benefits both employers and workers. Hiring individuals with disabilities brings valuable skills, perspectives and problem-solving approaches that can enhance workplace productivity and innovation. Many individuals have developed strong adaptability, persistence and attention to detail—qualities that contribute meaningfully to team performance. Employers also report improved collaboration and morale when broadening recruitment to include workers with disabilities, leading to tangible business results. As flexible work becomes more common across industries, the barriers between disability employment and the broader workforce are beginning to blur. Shifts toward remote roles, results-based performance and workforce sustainability align well with the needs of many individuals managing health conditions or seeking gradual re-entry. For employers, this evolution offers a chance to build stronger teams by opening opportunities to those historically overlooked—not as a matter of compliance, but as a forward-looking business strategy.
