Transition Work-Based Learning Model Demonstration Grant

In 2016, Maine DVR applied for and was awarded a Disability Innovation Fund grant for $9 million through the U.S. Department of Education’s Rehabilitation Services Administration. The purpose of the five-year grant was to study promising work-based learning interventions. In Maine those selected interventions were – Enhanced Jobs for Maine’s Grads (E-JMG) and Progressive Employment. Over 350 high school students in the Bangor and Augusta areas participated in the grant which concluded on September 30, 2021.

TWBL’s Partners included:

  • Jobs for Maine’s Grads (JMG)
  • Institute for Community Inclusion (ICI) at UMass Boston
  • American Institutes for Research (AIR)
  • Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation (CSAVR)
  • Center for Workforce Research and Information (CWRI) - MDOL

TWBL Findings and Recommendations

TWBL Evaluation

Impact of Jobs for Maine’s Graduates on Schooling and Employment Outcomes

Progressive Employment videos

Progressive Employment Training Modules

  • Online training for Employment Specialists, Vocational Rehabilitation counselors and others using the Progressive Employment approach: https://www.maine.gov/rehab/pet/

Youth Career Opportunity Assistance

Impact of the Transition Work-Based Learning Model in Maine

Progressive Employment

Financial Literacy Guide for Transition Age Youth

The Financial Literacy Guide is designed for families, educators, VR counselors, employment supports, and case managers to assist youth with disabilities to explore financial literacy. This resource contains lessons, activities, local resources, games, and a smartphone app.