Program Helps People With Disabilities Get Back To Work

TAMPA, FL — CareerSource Tampa Bay is reaching out to Hillsborough County residents with disabilities to help them regain employment and recover economically.

CSTB and the Social Security Administration’s Ticket-to-Work program assists individuals with disabilities between the ages of 18 and 64, actively receiving Social Security Disability Insurance and/or Supplemental Security Income cash benefits.

“We’re focusing on finding more remote based job opportunities for those with disabilities in our community," John Flanagan, CSTB CEO, said. “We’re here to help all of those impacted by COVID-19. There are a number of untapped resources for those in our community with disabilities."

The goal of TTW Program is to help people with disabilities return to work and earn a self-sufficient wage in a competitive job market.

“Those individuals that are in the Ticket-To-Work program feel more independent and have more financial freedom," Laura Llera-Pearsall, TTW disability program navigator, said. “Working again is also an important part of their recovery. These customers also gain a lot of confidence and self-worth.”

Services offered through the Ticket-to-Work program nclude:

• Work Readiness Determination
• Individual Goal Setting and Work Planning
• Job Search and Professional Placement Assistance
• Resume and Interviewing Workshops
• Skill Development Activities and Career Coaching
• Follow-Up and Support
• Special Support for Veterans with Disabilities

While participating in the TTW program, individuals can continue to receive their SSDI/SSI and Medicare benefits.

Program eligibility is as follows:

• Be between the ages of 18-64
• Be receiving SSDI or SSI
• Be self-directed; want to return to work full time
• Each program (SSDI and SSI) offers a variety of work incentives

Individuals interested in applying for the Ticket-to-Work program can contact Llera-Pearsall at 813-930-7637 or via email at llera-pearsalll@careersourcetampabay.com.