Department of Labor
Allocation: $1,000,000
Status: Active
Maine needs accessible, adaptive, and durable workforce development models to create opportunities for all people to develop their skills and for employers to meet their current and future workforce needs. Students and skilled workers are more likely to stay in Maine when they have fulfilling jobs and access to prosperous career pathways.
The Progressive Employment model offers a flexible and gradual approach to employment with proven success for individuals with disabilities in Maine. With funding from the Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan, Maine’s Department of Labor is expanding Progressive Employment opportunities to serve justice-involved Mainers and those in recovery from addiction. The program emphasizes creating value for employers as well as individuals, resulting in increased workplace readiness, more supportive work environments, and increased worker and employer satisfaction.