Texas APSE - State Recognition Awards

 This award is for an employer who has demonstrated their commitment to employment first initiatives by employing individuals with disabilities.  When nominating this employer please consider their overall impact on the workforce and the lives of individuals with disabilities.  This can be a large or small employer. 

  This award is for an individual with a disability who is working and excelling at their job.  This award can also be for an individual with a disability who has started a successful company.  It is even better if this individual has used services through a state agency program to obtain their employment.  

This award is for a provider agency that uses employment first principles to help individuals with disabilities find and keep jobs.  The provider should have documented experience and a good reputation for employment first principles. 

This award is for a front-line staff who works to help individuals learn and keep their jobs.  Ideally, this is a job coach, employment specialist, or someone with a like title.  This individual should exemplify what is means to be a front-line staff dedicated to employment first. 

This award is specifically for a state employee who has worked to advance employment first for individuals with disabilities.  Ideally, this person is still employed, but retired employees can be considered.  

 This award is for an individual or agency that has done innovative practices to advance Employment First in Texas.  This award category is broad on purpose.  The nomination can be for any innovative program or practice.