The number of people with disabilities who work in competitive jobs is growing.
Career and technical education can improve post-school outcomes for students with disabilities.
Areas of Success
We offer actionable solutions that increase opportunities for people with disabilities to achieve employment in our competitive and vibrant economy.
We promote self-sufficiency.
We study and publish the latest trends on employment & economic self-sufficiency for people with intellectual disabilities.
We expand economic opportunities.
All people want an opportunity to do paid work. Work is one way people with disabilities contribute to their communities and to the economy.
We engage with businesses.
Research has shown that people with disabilities are an untapped, qualified resource in the labor market. Business engagement is a key component in improving employment outcomes.
We are committed to academic excellence.
Our evidence-based research helps inform public policy at the federal, state, and local levels to improve employment and education outcomes.
Areas of Emphasis
We investigate real-world problems and challenges through our vast network of research projects, program evaluation, training, consultation, education, policy analysis, and service delivery.
Employment
Building a rewarding career in the community should be an expectation for all citizens. With support and planning, people with significant disabilities can thrive in the workplace.
Education
From pre-K through university, schools are engaging and involving students with a range of disabilities. By building skills early, young people can exit high school prepared to pursue higher education and find jobs that match their interests.
Community
Outside of work and school, people with disabilities are involved in a wide range of activities that make up a satisfying life. Whether it's getting involved with a faith community, attending a sports event, or volunteering at a local charity, people with disabilities participate in their community.
Health Care
Accessing quality health care enables us to live productively and to receive support when facing mental, behavioral, or physical challenges. For people with disabilities, adequate health care can require additional advocacy and planning.
New at ICI
Connecticut: Exploring New Possibilities with Apple Vision Pro
A technology representative was interested in trialing the Apple Vision Pro to learn more about its features, including built-in accessibility tools and its potential to enhance workplace productivity.
Illinois: Technology Helps Gianna Keep Up in Class
Gianna, a first grader, has vision difficulties along with coordination and attention challenges resulting from a brain injury. These challenges made it difficult for her to fully participate in classroom activities. Fortunately, she has a strong school team—including her teacher, occupational therapist, and vision therapist— who have implemented several assistive technology (AT) supports.
North Dakota: Assistive Technology Supports Safer Aging at Home
M and her daughter-in-law were experiencing growing stress related to M’s physical and cognitive changes. With early signs of dementia, they decided to get ahead of the challenges and begin planning for ways to support M’s independence and safety.
Texas: One Hand, New Opportunity
BridgingApps met with an adult client with a physical disability that affects the use of his right hand. He was working with the transition program at Easter Seals Greater Houston to find employment and wanted to learn about his assistive technology (AT) options for the workplace.
Alaska: Assistive Technology Transforms Daily Life
Shaquil was referred to Assistive Technology of Alaska by the Alaska Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired (ACBVI). While Shaquil had some assistive technology (AT) experience and had already learned to use his smartphone with VoiceOver through ACBVI, he sought greater independence at home.
Featured Project
ThinkWork!
ThinkWork serves as the hub for an array of research, training, and technical assistance efforts focused on employment of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Staff
Our Mission: The Institute for Community Inclusion (ICI) at UMass Boston supports the rights of children and adults with disabilities to participate in all aspects of society. As practitioners, researchers, and teachers, we form partnerships with individuals, families, community organizations, and service agencies. Together, we advocate for personal choice and self-determination.